Exploring the Bookshelves - Libraries, Archives and BIPC

'Exploring the Bookshelves' was a drop in event at Central Library during October half term 2024.

John Clare was passionate about reading and discovered his passion for poetry at a young age. Lauren Kendrick, the Peterborough Poet Laureate and Syntax Poetry Collective have worked to bring together both a celebration of local history through John Clare and a celebration of what is happening currently.

During half term, Lauren, along with Mark Grist, another local poet, who is also an author and performer, facilitated an interactive drop in event called 'Exploring the Bookshelves'. This was an ages workshop to explore the joy of books. Mark collated what came out of the workshop with a local visual artist Jeni Cairns to create a small display on a window including drawing and writing to celebrate the books in the collection.

At the end of the two days, Mark said:

“working with Jeni Cairns to create this window display at Peterborough Central Library has been a real joy. Every part of it came from conversations with library visitors—adults and children—about the books that have lit up their lives. We wanted to honour the stories and characters people love, and share some of our favourite quotes from visitors, celebrating the way reading has changed lives in Peterborough—and will keep doing so! It was amazing to watch people’s faces light up, sharing how they dip into books for a break from the world and come back ready to take it on. Seeing so many people get fired up about the power of words reminded us why books are both a refuge and a source of strength, and we hope this display captures a little of that magic.”