The Art of Libraries toolkit is here!
We are delighted to announce that our Art of Libraries toolkit is now available to download.
The toolkit is packed with creative and practical ideas to support artists and library staff to work together to make an irresistible creative programme for children and young people.
There are 4 main parts to the toolkit:
The Case for Creativity - why working in libraries is special - how artists and libraries can work together and how to generate interest and host events
Why go digital - which online platform to use and top tips from artists who have worked with libraries to engage families and young people at home
Getting Funding - understanding how funding works, where to look for it and tips for applying
Templates & Checklists - full of practical information to help you with contracts, access, safeguarding and hosting.
If you are inspired to work in libraries and would like to find out more please email libraries-
FURTHER INFO
Art of Libraries test programme
The toolkit has been developed with learning from the Art of Libraries programme. Art of Libraries is a collective change programme that began in 2017 and worked across the library, arts and education sectors in Gloucestershire. The shared vision was for a vibrant and diverse arts and cultural offer in libraries across Gloucestershire that sparks and sustains a daily creative habit for children, young people and their parents and/or carers.
WATCH THE FILM
Watch the film to share in the extraordinary journey we took. In 6 libraries over 3 years the library staff ripped up the rulebook for children and young people to get creative and take part in a range of creative activities from circus workshops to animation workshops and to watch live theatre - and claim their place in this space in the heart of the community.
Digital Commissions
In 2020 Gloucestershire Libraries worked to take existing creative activities online and in 2021 created two brand new commissions to test new and innovative ways for libraries to engage virtually with families whilst the library wasn’t able to host groups and activities.
The artists have shared their experiences in this blog series (their creative journeys and some top tips) so that other performers can gain insights into making the transition from a live to digital space.
You can read Jonny Fluffypunk’s blog about his experience taking his first family production online, watch theatre company Can’t Sit Still’s videos about their experience of taking a live show and turning it into a digital interactive theatre performance. Rizpah Amadasun’s blog is about creating fairytales with children in interactive online workshops and finally Brave Bold Drama, an award-winning theatre & community arts company brought their project ‘The Company of International Artists’ to children in Cirencester.