We launch with West Sussex Libraries

Written by Jackie Manners
01 April 2019

West Sussex Libraries have been supporting Reading Friends since the start of the programme in 2017. Together with local projects, the library made sure that all Reading Friends had access to the library’s facilities, and reminiscence resources to get people chatting.

The journey so far…

Since the start of Reading Friends, West Sussex Libraries supported organisations across West Sussex. We provided infrastructure support and access to a wide range of digital and assistive technologies. Now, we are using this learning to launch our own Reading Friends group.

We launched our first group on Thursday 7 February in Billlingshurst library. The group chatted about what books people have enjoyed recently, and film and TV tie-ins for some of our favourite books. It was great to know what people thought of the age-old film vs book debate. We also discussed whether it is better to see the film/TV show first or read the book. The jury is still out on that one.

Year of Culture Reading Challenge

The launch of the project also coincides with the Horsham District Year of Culture Reading Challenge where people are encouraged to read different types of books, including those that were banned books, and books that were published over 100 years ago. We took a trip down memory lane and shared what books we would read that were published over a century ago, and why. Everyone had a lovely time, and we are looking forward to more discussions on what we read.