Visitors to Telford Town Centre Library can enjoy the joys of books and rhymes with free refreshments.

The activities commence at 10.30am till 11.15am with stories and songs for under 5s. Those attending are being encouraged to dress as their favourite book character.

Cllr Arnold England, Telford & Wrekin Cabinet Member for Leisure and Well-being, said:

“World Book Day can be celebrated easily here in Telford and Wrekin with a great line up of activities, story telling and give-aways. Join in the fun at Telford Library on Thursday 1 March.”

In Shrewsbury Local school pupils have been invited to watch live showings of “The Biggest Book Show on Earth”. Top children’s authors and illustrators will be taking part in this online event, streamed direct to libraries across the UK. Nationwide, thousands of children will have an opportunity to see and hear their favourite authors.

Nursery-age children can see “Gruffalo” author Julia Donaldson and a host of other well-known picture book illustrators, whilst primary-age children have an hour-long show featuring favourite writers Jacqueline Wilson and Nick Sharratt, Cressida Cowell, Jeremy Strong, Andy Stanton, Eoin Colfer and many more.

Councillor Steve Charmely, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said:

“We can’t wait to get budding readers buzzing about World Book Day. Children who use libraries are twice as likely to be above-average readers, and our event is a fun way to encourage local children to become avid readers.”