Personal View

Estyn Allan was set up to enable librarians to become skilled in promoting contemporary literature and engage with readers in new ways.  This is something about the experiences and work of the Customer Services Librarian as she developed the project locally.

Over three years extensive training, I have become much more skilled at supporting reader development.

The project has given me a greater knowledge of new and first-time authors which has led to an increased range of paperback fiction at the library.

I am now more able to direct readers to a 'good read' by presenting them with new fiction titles and writers using a variety of ways - online, hard copy and word of mouth.

I guide readers to 'alternative' fiction through various displays and promotions.

I have been able to involve other staff in the promotions.

I have a series of new training tools to use for future staff training and development.

What else have I been doing?

Organising 3 Book Chains to promote reading at the Central Library.

Setting up a range of displays including

1. "The Last Chance Saloon" - Perhaps the final chance to read a title that is moving on....
2. "Chick Lit" and "Lad Lit" - Stories you may identify with
3. "Do You Dare?" - A wrapped book that you may - or may not  - enjoy
4. "Take A Break" - Need a break from stress? From the kids?  This display had a little something for everyone.
5. "Life is Like a Box of Chocolates..." - Take a wrapped book, take a chocolate.  Just like you don't know what chocolate you're eating, you won't know what book you're taking home until you unwrap it.

Future Plans

More reader promotions

Establish a Readers Group in the Borough

Whats New

• 04/09/08 - Fitness Suite
• 04/09/08 - Gold Card Memberships
• 04/09/08 - Passport To Leisure
• 04/09/08 - Corporate Discount Scheme
• 04/09/08 - Pay and Play
• 04/09/08 - Classes on Offer