Folkestone is a Library: The Power of Reading Together

Join us for an evening of ideas, stories and good conversation as we take a closer look at Folkestone is a Library and the people bringing it to life. Doors open from 6pm. Our quarterly Spotlight Events shine a light on local and national voices working across storytelling in all its forms, alongside projects and moments tied to key dates in the literary calendar.

Guest speakers:
Jennie Carter, founder of Memory Lab. This brilliant pilot programme is helping young people build confidence with learning and memory, already making an impact in local primary and secondary schools. As it grows, Memory Lab is looking for volunteers across Folkestone, Hythe and the Marsh to get involved, with support from the Open University. Curious? Come along and find out more, or get in touch with Jennie at memorylabschools@gmail.com

Tony Quarrington, Folkestone & Sandgate Literary Tours. Learn how you can go on a local literary tour in Folkestone and discover the stories woven through the town. These walks are a relaxed and engaging way to explore Folkestone’s connection to writing, from past voices to present-day creativity, while seeing familiar streets, buildings, and landscapes in a new light. Perhaps even sparking a few stories of your own along the way.

Anton von Bebenburg works with The Reader, an organisation building a network of Shared Reading groups across the UK and beyond. We believe that literature’s unique power can connect individuals, help us feel better and to rebuild lost social bonds – needed now more than ever. We’re excited to start a local group at the kollectiv arts centre in Folkestone and share stories of connection through reading. More info

Programme
· 6:00pm – Welcome drinks
· 6:15 – 6:30pm Folkestone is a Library update from Sophie Haydock
· 6:30 – 7.00pm Guest Speakers – Jennie Carter, Tony Quarrington, Anton Bebenburg
· 7:00 – 7.15pm Q&A
· 7:20 – 8:00 pm Drinks and networking
· 8:05pm – Thank you and close