Posted on Tuesday 9th May 2023
Danielle Pountney and Tara Spandrzyk from Staffordshire Libraries
Visitors to Staffordshire’s libraries during May are getting the chance to take part in fun activities to help promote the importance of caring for the environment.
The month-long #GreenLibraries campaign includes a programme of online and in-person events, including the Green Living Fair at Burton Library and an upcycle crochet workshop at Kidsgrove library. People will also be able to explore Perton library’s wildlife garden, join a creative writing activity at Uttoxeter library or take part in a green quiz and coffee morning at Rugeley library.
A special afternoon of poetry will also take place at Stafford library on Saturday 20 May, 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Hosted by Staffordshire Poet Laureate Dawn Jutton & Young Poet Laureate Mina Tideswell, the duo will be reading poetry inspired by nature & the unique wildlife & natural environment of Staffordshire.
People can support the campaign by sharing their stories and photos on social media and by liking Staffordshire Libraries posts using #GreenLibrariesMonth or #DiscoverYourLibrary.
Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities at Staffordshire County Council said:
“The county council is on a mission to reach net-zero by 2050 and since declaring a climate change emergency in 2019, we have already reduced our emissions by 43%.
“This is one of many campaigns we’re running to help raise awareness and make Staffordshire sustainable and I hope people are able to join in and share their photos.
“Small changes when combined can have a big impact and if we all do our bit we can help create greener communities here in Staffordshire and help us all breathe cleaner air.”
Staffordshire Green Libraries Month has been developed in response to the Green Libraries Manifesto, organised by the library and information association, CILIP, and in partnership with Arts Council England, British Library, Libraries Connected and Julie’s Bicycle.
Further information and details of events taking place are available at Staffordshire Connects.