Tuesday, 9 January 2024

Leeds Libraries newsletter

 With details of upcoming events and activities:

A fresh new year of library fun!

 

 

 

Leeds Libraries Newsletter

Leeds Libraries Newsletter - January 2024

Welcome

Happy New Year! We warmly welcome you to the January edition of our monthly newsletter, where you'll find engaging events, creative activities, the latest news and more.

If you're not already, make sure you're following us on social media to get the latest news and see what we're up to. You can also check out our What's On in Leeds Libraries page on Leeds Inspired for more details.


Try something new this year...

Art Library

Why not start the year with a new activity and try out some of our drawing sessions in the beautiful Art Library at Leeds Central Library?

Life Drawing 6 week course

Mondays 8, 15, 22, 29 January: 5.30-7.30pm

Always wanted to learn how to draw or improve your technique? Venture into life drawing in this relaxed, supportive four-week course taught by artist and tutor Paul Digby. Book here

Drop In and Draw

Weekly from Thursday 11 January, 12.30-2.30pm

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Drawing Room on your lunch break in this untutored session. There's a weekly theme, with props. Art books are available for inspiration and to borrow. Materials and drinks are available to buy, or you’re welcome to bring your own. No need to book, just drop in. 


Fantasy: Realms of Imagination

10 November to 17 January 2024 at Leeds Central Library

Fantasy exhibition

Our popular exhibition and programme of events runs until 17 January at Central Library, after which elements will move to the following libraries & community hubs: 

  • Chapel Allerton: 22 January
  • Beeston: 5 February
  • Holt Park: 19 February

Do come and visit if you haven't seen it yet! We've selected some special event highlights for this month...

Fantasy Board Games JamFantasy Board Games Jam

Saturday 20 January, 10am, Leeds Central Library

Join us for an enchanting journey into the realm of fantasy board games! Team up with fellow adventurers, artists, and game designers to design your very own fantasy board game from scratch or bring an existing idea to life.

Whether you're a seasoned game designer or a first-time creator, the Fantasy Board Games Jam welcomes all. So, gather your party or come along solo and let us level up your skills with inspiring sessions on game design running throughout the day.

Fabulous prizes for the most creative and captivating fantasy board games. 

Pay as you Feel, with a suggested donation of £5. Book your ticket here

Fantasy Quiz Night

Wednesday 24 January, 6pm, Leeds Central Library, Hunslet Library & Hub and Chapel Allerton Library, 7pm

Think you know your Fantasy? Do you know which book Frozen is based on, or which characters made up the 'Fellowship of the Ring'?

Put your fantasy knowledge to the test with this nationwide quiz designed by the British Library. We welcome solo quizzers or teams of up to 6 people. Dressing up as your favourite fantasy character is encouraged!

There will be prizes for the winners and you'll be in with an exciting chance of winning the national prize, which includes signed Neil Gaiman and Susan Cooper books! Drinks will be available to purchase from our bar.

For Central Library book here, for Chapel Allerton book here, and for Hunslet book here

Susanna Clarke & Alan MooreSusanna Clarke and Alan Moore in conversation

Livestreamed from the British Library

Thursday 11 January, 7.30pm, Bramley Library & Community Hub

An unprecedented meeting between two exceptional authors, as they share thoughts on the nature of the fantastic and its intersection with place and time.

Susanna Clarke is the acclaimed author best known for two masterpieces of speculative fiction, Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell and Piranesi.

Alan Moore is widely regarded as the best and most influential writer in the history of comics. His seminal works include From Hell, V for Vendetta and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.

Book your free ticket here

 

Making your flesh crawlMaking your Flesh Crawl 

Wednesday 17 January, 6.30pm, Morley Library & Community Hub

Using the Victorian ghost story as a basis, this session in our fantasy season with Professor Ruth Robbins introduces some of the key facets of ghost story genre with the aim of beginning our own creepy tales…Be afraid, very afraid. 

Book your free ticket here

 

Treasures on TourTreasures on Tour 

Monday 22 January, 2.00pm, Chapel Allerton Library

Peer through portals, be unnerved by the uncanny, frolic with fairies or embark on an epic quest as we explore some of the treasures of our special collections.

This event is suitable for adults and young people, and is part of a week-long programme of events celebrating the 120th anniversary of the opening of Chapel Allerton Library.

Book your free ticket here

 


 

ToshoConToshoCon

Saturday 10 February, 10am, Leeds Central Library

A one day convention dedicated to Japanese Anime and Manga. After previous sell out years we are returning this February with a variety of workshops, performances, events, and stalls selling a range of items.

Feel free to come as your favourite character. Dressing up is encouraged!

Book your ticket here - this one is likely to sell out!

 


 

Read with DadRead with Dad

Hunslet Community Hub & Library

Every other Saturday from 2-3pm: 13 January, 27 January, 10 February, 24 February, 9 March, 23 March, 6 April, 20 April.

Read with Dad is an informal, friendly read-and-play session for kids aged 0-7 years and their male carers.

Meet other dads and male carers in your community, discover fantastic new books with your children, and make storytime a special time. There will also be the chance to do a simple craft activity, to play in the Library, and to get book recommendations for your family.

Free refreshments are provided. No booking required - just drop in!

 


Chapel Allerton library

Chapel Allerton Library turns 120!

Originally opened in January 1904 by Lord Mayor A Currer Briggs, this month sees the 120th birthday of Chapel Allerton Library. To celebrate, join us for a week-long programme of events, talks and workshops from 22 January. The library will host a touring version of the British Library’s Fantasy: Realms of Imagination exhibition, a glimpse into our special collections and archive material, a collage workshop and quiz night, and author Chris Nickson will share his own memories of the library. The week will culminate in a library-inspired Lego Spike event for children, and a celebratory tea and cake with special guest, Lord Mayor Councillor Al Garthwaite.

For full event details and how to book, please visit Ticketsource


 

Start-Up and GrowDid you know we provide information and support for budding entrepreneurs and local businesses?

As we begin a new year, we’re excited to introduce our new Start-Up and Grow programme - ideal for anyone interested in starting a business or revisiting the fundamentals. It offers step-by-step workshops led by business specialists, networking opportunities, and access to business resources.

If you, or someone you know, is looking to start a business contact the team at bipcleeds@leeds.gov.uk or follow our Eventbrite page for notification of upcoming Start-up and Grow workshops.

 


Winter Friends

Could you be a Winter Friend?

A Winter Friend looks out for the people around them, both in their personal life and the wider community. They understand that kindness goes a long way and that the smallest of gestures can be the ones that make the biggest difference.

Helping a friend with their shopping, clearing snow off a neighbour’s drive or inviting someone round for a cup of tea are all ways someone could be a Winter Friend. Whether you’re already doing something or are thinking of reaching out to someone for the first time, you can become a Winter Friend and get access to free resources to support others this winter.

Find out more here


 

Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment FairLeeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair returns to first direct arena Leeds on Monday 5th February 2024. Free tickets are available to book between 1pm-7pm and everyone is welcome.

You’ll have the chance to talk to major employers from a wide range of sectors, including accounting, business and administration, catering and hospitality, construction, creative design, care services, digital, education, engineering, finance, hair and beauty, health, law, protective services and many more!

Over 100 exhibitors will be there offering information, advice, guidance and live vacancies. You can find out about apprenticeships as well as higher and degree apprenticeships, including what they involve and how they work.

Book your free ticket here: https://bit.ly/LARF24

 


Find out more

Did you know we have 3 further library newsletters, where you can find out more about family friendly activities, local history and books and reading? Sign up here:

Thank you for reading our latest newsletter. We look forward to welcoming you soon - get in touch or find your local library


 Leeds City Council · Civic Hall, Calverley Street · Leeds, LS1 1UR

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