Following the success of the first Love Libraries Month last year, Bedford Borough Libraries are excited to announce the return of a month-long celebration of reading and community this February. The initiative, part of the Bedford Borough Year of Reading 2025, will feature a diverse programme of author visits for adults, family activities, and engaging workshops for children.
Throughout February, Bedford Borough Libraries will host a variety of events, including special appearances from Bookstart Bear, Booktrust Storytimes, free half term crafts, and phonics workshops and reading support from Explore Learning. Visitors of all ages are also invited to contribute to ‘library trees’ by adding hearts or leaves, sharing what they love most about their local library.
“Love Libraries Month is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the vital role our libraries play in fostering a love of reading and building stronger communities,” said Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture at Bedford Borough Council; “Reading for pleasure has a profound impact on people of all ages, we encourage everyone to visit their local library this February and discover the wealth of resources and activities available all year round.”
Key highlights of the month include:
Ruth Hogan at Bromham Library
Join bestselling author Ruth Hogan on Tuesday 11 February at 11am as she discusses her books and life as an author. Ruth's debut novel, The Keeper of Lost Things, was the winner of the Richard and Judy Readers' Award and a Sunday Times bestseller. Copies of Ruth's books will be available to buy after the talk and she will be happy to sign them.
Ready Steady Roll on the first floor of Bedford Central Library
Enjoy board game fun for families on Tuesday 18 February, with sessions at 11am-12.30pm and 1-3.30 pm. This free event features a selection of board games and guidance from the Ready Steady Roll ‘Games Gurus’. Please note that not all games may be suitable for under-fives.
Nicky Perfect, Hostage Negotiator, at Bedford Central Library
Hear Nicky Perfect's incredible experiences as a hostage negotiator on Wednesday, 26 February at 1.30 pm. Nicky is a BEM-communication coach, trainer, speaker and author. In her book, Crisis, she explores the importance of using the correct communication techniques, especially when emotions are running high and fear starts to take over behaviour. Copies of Nicky’s book will be available to buy after Nicky’s talk and she will be happy to sign them.
Activities will be taking place at all Bedford Borough Libraries throughout February. The events are open to everyone and library membership is not required, although it’s free to join and Love Libraries Month is a great time to pick up a library card!
Tickets for the two author events are just £2 and must be booked in advance via The Higgins Bedford website (use code HIGGINS30 to remove any transaction fee), by calling the Box Office at 01234 718044, or by visiting Bromham Library during staffed hours.
Learn more about Bedford Borough Libraries and join online before you visit and collect your library card at www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries
These activities are part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The Bedford Borough Year of Reading will continue throughout 2025 with a wide range of events and initiatives. To find out more or get involved, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/YearOfReading