I believe in unicorns (and that books are magic)!

Last week, Kensington Central Library hosted a marvellous magical performance, by Wizards Present, of the stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s book “I Believe in Unicorns”

Five classes, of over 150 children and their teachers, from schools in Hammersmith and Fulham, Westminster, and Kensington and Chelsea were entranced by this fabulous story about how lives can be transformed by books, stories and of course libraries and librarians.

Roll up roll up...who wants to see something amazing?
Roll up roll up…who wants to see something amazing?

Not only was the script and the performance magical, but the props used were magical too! The children gasped as books opened up to become houses and villages, books within books, books used to represent mountains and lakes, and they concealed other surprises as the story unfurls as Tomas, with his newfound love of books, becomes instrumental in saving his burning library when his village is devastated by war.

The children and staff loved it. We even discussed it at our whole school assembly today

And here it is...an actual unicorn!
And here it is…an actual unicorn!

We think this is an excellent example of how libraries can work with schools to inspire and create a love of books, stories and reading!

If you’re interested in finding out more about library events for schools, keep your eye on the Schools Bulletin (for WCC), the Schools Circular (for RBKC) and the School Staff Zone (for LBHF)

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New Year’s Message

Colourful firework image
Fireworks

2012 has been a great year for our libraries across the three boroughs.

As well as keeping all the libraries open to meet your reading, learning and information needs, we have introduced additional services, such as One Stop express in Westminster, an online reading group, and extended our business and community events programme. We have made it possible through One Library Card for you to borrow material from any of the 21 libraries across the 3 boroughs, and to use the many special collections and services now available, including online from your home.

2013 will see more investment in library buildings in Marylebone, Hammersmith and Kensington and other service developments.

On behalf of all library staff, thank you for your support and custom this year and we look forward to seeing you in 2013.

I wish you all a Happy New Year.

David Ruse

David Ruse, Head of Library Service, Tri-borough
David Ruse

Tri-borough Director of Libraries and Archives