The Festival of Brilliant – Summer at the Libraries – 28th-31st July 2026

Free family events at your local library this summer

As part of The Festival Of Brilliant

Biddulph, Cheadle, Werrington, Leek and Blythe Bridge Libraries - 28th - 31st July 2026

Meet bestselling authors, create comics and enjoy interactive storytelling

Visit your local library this summer for a fantastic programme of free, book-themed events for children and families. From comic drawing and storytelling to interactive theatre, there’s something to inspire every young reader.

Don’t forget to sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge while you’re there!

Marc Jackson – Comics & Cartoon Workshop

Join cartoonist Marc Jackson (The Beano, The Phoenix and Goof Comic) for a crazy-fun comics and cartoon art workshop!

Learn how to create your own comic characters, discover the basics of comic-making and, most importantly, have fun while breaking the rules. Marc’s lively workshops celebrate creativity and imagination, encouraging children to enjoy drawing without worrying about getting everything “right” or “perfect”.

Ages 6+

  • Biddulph Library – Tuesday 28 July, 11am–12pm
  • Cheadle Community Library – Tuesday 28 July, 2pm–3pm

Lydia Monks – Meet the Author & Illustrator

Join bestselling, award-winning author and illustrator Lydia Monks for a fun and interactive event exploring how she creates her much-loved books.

Find out where her ideas come from, how she develops stories and characters, and hear about illustrating books with Julia Donaldson, including the What the Ladybird Heard series, Princess Mirrorbelle and The Tooth Fairy and the Crocodile. Lydia will also introduce The Six Queens, her latest non-fiction book.

Ages 4+

  • Werrington Library – Friday 31 July, 11am–11.45am

Rat’s Tales – Interactive Story Performance

Join the New Vic Theatre for an interactive storytelling adventure for children and families.

This lively 30-minute performance reimagines the classic tale of The Pied Piper with plenty of twists, surprises and silly sounds along the way. Get ready to wiggle your whiskers as you become part of the story!

Ages 5+

  • Leek Library – Thursday 30 July, 11am & 2pm
  • Blythe Bridge Library – Friday 31 July, 11am & 2pm

Booking Information

These workshops are completely free. Booking is recommended. Contact your local library to book your place.

Part of The Festival of Brilliant

At OUTSIDE we have a flexible approach to access – if you would like a further conversation or if you have any queries, please get in touch.