Robert Lloyd - a Sir Gar Blog of random news . . . and some Clecs!

Llanelli Library has come runner up in a national competition encouraging readers to discover the world of fictional forensic archaeologist Ruth Galloway, a character created by author Elly Griffiths. Quercus Books invited libraries across the UK to partake in a three month Elly Griffiths Reader Challenge from January to March this year. Libraries have been creating wonderful displays and Elly has chosen Llanelli Library as the “brilliant runner up”.

It's more like a busy glittering Star Wars Enterprise flight deck than a stuffy, silent book shelf filled emporium. As a result Llanelli Library has zoomed into the stratosphere being officially recognised as third in the top five list of libraries with the highest lending figures for books and other loans in the UK. Fourth last year, Llanelli library continues to buck the trend of most libraries across the country experiencing a decline in lending. Official figures from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) reveal that more than half a million items were issued at Llanelli Library last year. Only Norfolk and Worchester performed better. Carmarthenshire county council executive board member for regeneration and leisure services, Cllr Meryl Gravell, said: “It is a remarkable achievement to be recognised nationally when in competition with much bigger centres of population nationwide. “The library’s continuing improvement justifies the council confidence...

Local authors will be signing their books at a series of Christmas Book Fairs at Carmarthenshire Libraries. Visitors to the three main libraries will have the chance to meet the authors and get books signed for themselves or as Christmas presents. The authors include Llandeilo-based genealogist Greg Howes who is author of Victorian suspense novel The Man Behind the Glass; children’s author Lynn John Blake, of Carmarthen; novelist Simon Glyndwr Johns, who lives in Carmarthen; and former referee and author Roger Penn, of Whitland. The other authors are Heather Burdett, Diane Doona, Goronwy Evans, Josephine Hammond, Fiona Mayes, Nina Milton, Thorne Moore, Ena Niedergang, Mary Powles, John Thompson, Sarada Thompson, and Wendy White. The Christmas Book Fairs are at Carmarthen Library on Saturday November 19, Llanelli Library on Saturday November 26, and Ammanford Library on Saturday December 3, from 11am–1pm. Entry is free with a chance to browse, buy and chat.

Carmarthenshire Libraries, in collaboration with Ziptales, has reached nearly 5,000 children throughout the county during September alone. Why not encourage your children to foster the joy of books through Ziptales by reading at home as the stories are fun and interactive? As well as being fun, it is an invaluable educational resource fulfilling a variety of children’s needs which is linked to the UK National Curriculum, aimed at children between the ages of four and 13. It is very simple to use and a safe online environment for children to explore – they can log in simply by using their library membership card to experience the exciting and fun interactive modules. Ziptales can be used right away by logging in with a library card, at home or the library. Why don’t you pop down to your nearest library to find out more? Library Services Manager Mark Jewell said: “Promoting a love of reading can also encourage children to desire borrowing and reading books from the library.” Executive...

The winners of Carmarthenshire Libraries’ Summer Reading Surprise Challenge have received their prizes. The competition involved readers picking up wrapped books under the headings of fiction or non-fiction in English or Welsh without knowing what they were getting. They were asked to complete a form on what they thought of their favourite book. They were presented with Waterstone Vouchers and award winning books written by local author Bryce Thomas at Llanelli Library. Pictured from left to right are English language books winner Mrs Barbara Bostock and Welsh language books winner Mrs Dawn Richards, staff member Yvonne Kelly and local award winning author Bryce Thomas.

Carmarthenshire Libraries will be holding drop in sessions to help people with sight loss go online. From June to December the RNIB will deliver the sessions in order to support people with sensory loss.  The project ‘Online Today’, offers advice and guidance on technology, and helping people to develop skills and confidence in using technology. To make the best use of these drop in sessions and to support the RNIB’s campaign of MANIL (Making Noise in Libraries) 2016, Carmarthenshire Libraries will be demonstrating the numerous free audio visual services provided. Why don’t you pop along to your nearest regional library to find out further dates or information and contact either Ammanford Library on 01269 598360, Carmarthen Library 01267 224824, Llanelli 01554 744327 or access facebook.com/carmslibraries

Communities First has now supported more than 100 people to improve their digital skills and learn how to use iPads. The free four-week course, which is delivered in local libraries by Communities First Digital Volunteers, has proved popular and since it started in July 2015 more than 100 people have taken advantage of it. The courses, which are run in Llanelli, Ammanford and Llwynhendy Libraries, show people how to use an iPad, search the internet and download apps and iBooks. The course is open to all ages, and you do not even have to own an iPad to get started! To book a place on the next available course please contact Llanelli or Ammanford Library on 01554 773538 or 01269 598150.

Llanelli Library has hit the headlines after being declared the busiest centre in Wales. Over half a million books borrowed in 2014 makes it the fourth busiest centre in the UK and the busiest in Wales. According to Womens Weekly research 601,182 books were issued at the refurbished Vaughan Street library in 2014. Elsewhere in Wales, Cardiff Central Library made 581, 779 loans in 2014. Significant investment in IT has enabled library services to become more accessible to the public with new, high speed PC’s, Wi-Fi including access to social networking (Twitter and Face book), downloadable books, Net Library – e audio books, News Bank- e access to over 20 Welsh and over 350 UK daily newspapers, Oxford Grove Art and Music being available from the libraries web site to name just a few. Self service points are also being looked at with terminals planned for all centres in the New Year. The council’s executive board member for leisure, Cllr Meryl Gravell said: “The ...

Ammanford Library opens its doors on Monday with a new, vibrant look and extra high tech services. A week of celebrations are planned to mark the event which will see S4C’s children's icon Sali Mali and Jac y Do’s Eifion Price joining in. There will be demonstrations, exhibitions, actif storytime and toddlebikes sessions plus lots more. The first 50 new library members through the door will also be treated to a goody bag. A host of improvement works have been carried out including outside rendering, internal relocation of departments, carpeting, painting, new shelving, major re stocking of new books and audio visual items, new computers, a teenage seating zone and a screen. A new adult lending library, will house non- fiction and fiction books as well as spoken word books and new MP3 spoken word books. The council’s library services manager, Mark Jewell said: “We’re thrilled with the new look which enhances the library as a community, learning and cultural hub for the town and i...

Harry Potter fans are in for a mysterious treat at Carmarthenshire Libraries. Carmarthen and Llanelli libraries will be offering a morning of wizardry for Old Road and Johnstown school pupil to celebrate the first ever Harry Potter Night this Thursday (February 5). During the visit children will be able to take part in a range of different activities such as a Diagon Alley Hunt, storytelling and a Harry Potter quiz followed by activity sheets. And the fun does not end there as Carmarthen and Llanelli libraries are extending the invitation by asking all Harry Potter fans to get their broomsticks ready and join in the celebrations which take place up until National Libraries day on Saturday (February 7). Business Team Manager, Wendy Tiffin, said:”Libraries are not only about books, but are also fun places to visit, and hopefully our young visitors will be encouraged to come more often and ultimately to read more too.” It is hoped that children will be inspired to return to their local ...

Carmarthenshire archives and two libraries have joined forces to provide a free family history service. It follows an increasing interest nationwide of people wanting to research their roots, due in some part to the popularity of programmes such as ‘Who do you think you are?’ and ‘Long Lost Family’. Technology and digital archiving of thousands and thousands of documents has also made it easier for people to find information online. Carmarthenshire’s archive and libraries are now teaming up to offer a more accessible service, with experts on hand to help people discover their past. Until now people have enjoyed a basic package researching their ancestry at both Carmarthen and Llanelli town centre libraries. The latest move will mean they will have to access to a wide range of items including hard copies of Parish register indexes maps and access to findmypast.com website. The town centre locations are open six days a week and will make it easier for people to access, as well as the ...

Did you spend hours of your childhood building all kinds of marvellous creations? Well, now it’s the turn of today’s younger generation. Lego enthusiasts aged between six and 12 who are creative, imaginative or who just like to build things, are invited to join a new Lego Club at Llanelli Library. Youngsters were invited to build Lego castles as part of the Library Service’s ‘Mythical Maze’ summer reading challenge activities. Don’t worry if you missed it, as there will be another chance for you to join in the fun on September 13, 2-3pm. With funding from Museums Archives and Libraries Wales (CyMAL), Carmarthenshire Libraries have invested in brand new Lego kits, including building blocks and characters, as well as two Lego alligators. Each Lego session will offer a unique theme from castles to beaches. There will also be a free-for-all session where children can build anything that they dream up. Systems Team Manager, Daniel Alliston, said: “Libraries are not only about books, but ...

Children have taken over Llanelli Library to kick start this year’s Summer Reading Challenge ‘Mythical Maze’. Children joined Sir Charlie Stinky Socks on his really big adventure with interactive storytelling, sound effects and props. The children also decorated a giant castle, which will be in the Children’s Library all summer. It is hoped that the children will be inspired to return to their local library during the holidays to sign up for the Mythical Maze summer reading challenge. Carmarthenshire Libraries take part in the national summer reading challenge each year and hundreds of children sign up to win prizes as they read and return their books over the holidays. The incentives this year include a fridge magnet, zip-tag and certificate. Children's & Young People's Librarian, Lesley Cresswell, said:” It was fantastic that so many children came into the library to take part in our first event of the summer, and have signed up for our challenge to get exciting rew...

A new parent and toddler group is being piloted at Llanelli Library in a bid to strengthen pre-school parent-child bonds and boost long-term literacy. The weekly sessions, run by Communities First, provide a place for parents and parents to be, to meet up, as well as offering a safe and friendly environment for children to learn. The group will meet up on Mondays between 10am and 12 noon at Llanelli Library and is suitable for children aged up to three. Activities include short picture books, songs and lots of knee bounces. Play Development Officer, Tara Lewis, said:”We hope that if parents missed sessions in the past they’ll come along to future groups.” Communities First is a community focused programme that supports the Welsh Government's tackling poverty programme. The programme supports the most disadvantaged people in the most deprived areas with the aim of helping alleviate persistent poverty. Anyone interested in finding out more about the events should call 01554 78484...

Nursery favourite Elmer the colourful patchwork Elephant is 25 years old, and to celebrate, Llanelli Library asked everyone to come and take part in a story session and parade. People were invited to wear their brightest Elmer the Elephant colours, and bring their own elephant toys. Other activities included creating a giant Elmer the Elephant and mask-making. Children's and Young People's Librarian, Lesley Cresswell, said:"These events are really popular with the children. “They show that libraries are not only about books, but are also fun places to visit, and hopefully our young visitors will be encouraged to visit more often and to read more.” Carmarthenshire’s libraries are already successfully involved with local communities offering more than just books, including homework clubs, free internet access and iPad training. The latest addition to their online resources are the first theory test pro and GoCitizen.co.uk. Carmarthenshire’s Executive Board Member for lib...

Youngsters who bounced along to Llanelli Children’s Library’s Bunny Hop enjoyed rabbit jokes, stories, crafts and games. The free event was one of many which takes place at the library throughout the year. One of the children said: “I loved the decorating and the story. It was great.” One of the parents added: “’It was good for the children to interact with others and do different craft activities.” The Children’s Library offers books for all ages in English and Welsh, DVDs, CDs, and free holiday events like the Bunny Hop. There are also term time activities, such as the pre-school storytime on Tuesdays from 2.15pm - 2.45pm or the Homework Club on Thursdays from 3.30pm - 5pm.

Hundreds of people marked a new chapter in the life of Carmarthen Library when they joined the celebrations of its re-opening. Visitors flocked to the new-look library to see its refurbishment and take part in activities which included celebratory toasts, appearances by local authors, bagpipe playing and giveaways. Pupils from St Mary's Catholic school in Carmarthen were also entertained by a storytelling and puppet making session by The Crowman. Children’s Librarian Kevin Bowen said:" It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the week’s activities which have proven to be very popular.” Carmarthenshire’s libraries are already successfully involved with local communities offering more than just books, including homework clubs, free internet access, iPad training and new online resources including the first theory test pro and GoCitizen.co.uk. Carmarthenshire’s Executive Board Member for libraries, Cllr Meryl Gravell, said:”It is pleasing to see the refurbishment complet...

A range of activities are taking place across the county’s libraries to celebrate National Libraries Day. Carmarthenshire County Council librarians in Llanelli, Carmarthen and Ammanford are calling on locals to show that they love their local library this Saturday (February 8) as part of the nationwide celebration. Children will be challenged to find the hidden characters such as “Where’s Wally” and “Find a Library Cat” in a free, fun treasure hunt. Follow the clues to find that golden ticket. Prizes up for grabs include Scarlets tickets, theatre tickets, book tokens, free family swims and free dvd rentals. The aim of the day is to encourage people to visit their local library and discover the wide range of services on offer, and for regular users to encourage their friends and family members to make use of libraries services. Cllr Meryl Gravell, Executive Board Member with responsibility for libraries said: “National Libraries Day is a celebration of what is great about our li...

Carmarthenshire school children are having fun doing their homework thanks to a new venture. Homework clubs piloted at Carmarthenshire County Council Libraries in partnership with Communities First are providing a safe and welcoming environment in which young people can complete their homework. Homework clubs are intended to attract young people who need extra help with their work, access to free computers and the internet, or just a place where they can have undisturbed, peaceful study. Staff are on hand to offer advice, but do not provide subject tuition. Jessica Price, 10, said: "I enjoyed homework club, because I got my homework done and it was fun". Carmarthenshire Libraries and Communities First are hoping to extend the homework club throughout the year and to other library locations. Communities First Family Learning Worker, Emma Wood, said: “We feel the homework club was successful because children mentioned that they found it more interesting completing their wo...

Help is at hand for Carmarthenshire school pupils getting stuck into their homework. Carmarthenshire Libraries and Communities First are getting together to encourage children to drop in to a free homework club. Homework clubs are intended to attract young people who need extra help with their work, access to free computers and the internet, or just a place where they can have undisturbed, peaceful study. Children's and Schools' Librarian Catrin Simon said: “We would like homework clubs to be an enjoyable environment where children can learn from each other.” Homework clubs take place every Monday at Llwynhendy Library and every Thursday at Llanelli Library, 3.30-5pm. Cllr Meryl Gravell, Executive Board Member with responsibility for libraries, said: “This is a great idea which should encourage children to get together in a supportive environment away from the home and classroom. It’s also another great way to encourage children to spend time in the library, which could be a pa...