Get creating: Libraries inspiring creativity with new season of events

A new season of events from workshops to discos, theatre to films, storytelling to markets, is coming to libraries across Devon and Torbay from August to October this year.  

The Get Creating season encourages communities throughout the county to get in touch with their creative side, whether participating in activities or watching performances, there is something for everyone, even if they wouldn’t describe themselves as creative. Most are offered free or at a very low cost.  

It’s the second time Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs libraries across the county, has run the themed season. More than 4000 people took part in Get Creative activities last year. This year’s key events will take place in Barnstaple, Exeter and Paignton libraries.  

Highlights include stop motion animation, photography workshops and a film screening about a dress made from nettles, plus the chance to have a go at spinning your own nettle yarn! Paignton has a puzzle solving trail around the library for all amateur sleuths, story time with Mama G and an 80s themed Library Lates. Exeter is hosting an array of events including family theatre, a marvellous makers market to tie in with the Summer Reading Challenge and an over-60s disco. 

Plus there are many smaller events happening at libraries across Devon and Torbay throughout the season. Examples include a filmaking workshop at Crediton library, learning digital music production at Cullompton library and a dance class in Ashburton library.  

In 2022, Libraries Unlimited secured a £720,369 grant from Arts Council England to boost its thriving programme of music, films, workshops and high quality community events between 2023 and 2026. 

Rae Hoole, Creative Communities Producer from Libraries Unlimited said: “Our first Get Creating season was a great success. This funding from Arts Council England has been incredible, allowing us to put on a huge range of events for everyone across Devon and Torbay. There truly is something for everyone! 

“The funding and experience we have built up during the previous seasons means the programme just keeps getting bigger and better. We are encouraging everyone to come  

We hope people will bring their friends and families and who knows, they might discover talents that they never knew about and pick up some new skills along the way!” 

For details of all events please visit Evolve - Events (librariesevolve.org.uk)