Paignton's 'book'able season of fun

A winter's season of fun is being promised at Paignton Library - including, of course, Christmas.

Arts events include creativity and a focus on a sustainable future in a warm welcoming community space.

The ‘Better Tomorrow’ season is part of a three-year programme of creative offerings being rolled out by Libraries Unlimited in Devon and Torbay this winter.

The charity, which runs the 54 libraries across the county, secured a £720,369 grant from Arts Council England in 2022 to boost its thriving programme of music, films, workshops, and high-quality community events between 2023 and 2026. ‘Better Tomorrow’ will focus on a sustainable future and the natural world.

Thousands of people have already enjoyed the dozens of workshops, performances, art, and music events that have been staged so far on two themes – ‘Pride of Place’ and ‘Get Creating!’.

This winter season will offer the Torbay community the chance to try everything from Christmas cookie decorating to ventriloquism, along with a children’s disco and a barn dance.

The sessions kick off in December and run through until March. Similar events are being held in Exeter and Barnstaple libraries.

Rae Hoole, Creative Communities Producer from Libraries Unlimited, said: “Libraries are fast becoming key venues for arts events in Torbay. Our Arts Council England funding has enabled us to dramatically expand the number and range of events we’re able to put on, reaching even more people and keeping costs low. Winter can be an isolating time, with worries about fuel costs and the colder weather, which makes it the perfect season to get out and get together in the warm, welcoming space of a library. We hope we’ve laid on something for everyone with old favourites and some surprises."

EVENTS AT PAIGNTON LIBRARY:

Classical Concert for Children

Thursday December 12 (11am) Duo Tutti (Alex Wilson and Ruth Molins) combine well-known classical tunes, unusual sounds and new music to create unique concerts that are entertaining and accessible to all. Inspired by old and new music they create sound worlds you might not expect to hear from a flute/piano duo.

The concert is a free drop-in session lasting approximately 45mins - perfect for preschool children, but kids of any age are welcome.

Christmas Cookie Decorating

Sat December 14 (11am - 1pm)  £20, 16+ Enjoy a Christmas experience not seen in the library before - learn how to decorate Christmas themed cookies in this two-hour workshop with Stefanie from Sweet Art Bakery. Decorate three bauble cookies with stunning designs and take home boxed. Whether you are a beginner or looking to learn something new, the workshop is for all abilities and is a great workshop to enjoy with friends and get into the Christmas spirit.