I have led reader development in libraries for more than 15 years. What makes this role so rewarding is the chance to spark connections between people and books, inspiring a lifelong love of reading and strengthening community bonds. Mine is a dynamic and varied position. I represent libraries for The Reading Agency, review books for the BBC Radio 2 book club, source authors for events, and judge major literary events including the Wainwright Prize for nature writing.

Greenwich is a vibrant, diverse and multicultural borough, and our library staff are dedicated, imaginative and generous in sharing their talents to enrich the experience for all. Our libraries are true community hubs, offering activities for every age. Creativity sits at the heart of our programmes, providing a safe and welcoming environment with free activities that promote social inclusion, wellbeing, and opportunities to make meaningful new connections.

For the past three years I have led creative workshops as part of The Big Draw, an annual festival of drawing. Last year at Charlton House Library, I ran my first all-age sketchbook walk in Charlton Park. After warm-up exercises indoors, the group took sketchbooks outside to capture the park. Families joined in, and the atmosphere was lively and inclusive.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. I too gained much from the experience- particularly the reminder that creativity, collaboration and skill-sharing forge new perspectives and connections. Two children stood out: not only did they fill sketchbooks with drawings, but they transformed them into stories, turning a fallen log into a planet and a pigeon into their protagonist. Their imagination showed just how powerful creativity can be – both as a way of storytelling and of exploring the world. These children are now regular library visitors, updating me on their stories and proudly sharing their latest sketchbook creations.

Running a Big Draw event doesn’t require complex planning, just some sketchbooks, simple drawing materials, a risk assessment, and the enthusiasm to share and swap ideas. Signing up gives you access to a resource pack with stickers, a practical toolkit, and inspiring blog posts to get started.