Reading Lifelines is a new project funded by DCMS/Wolfson Foundation, set up by ‘Time to Read’. Reading Lifelines is running in eighteen boroughs across the North West until June 2001. Newton-le-Willows has been chosen as the base for this project in St.Helens.

Reading Lifelines recognises that few 16-25 year olds are members of the public library. We hope to increase library membership in this age group by finding out what young people want from the public library. A questionnaire has been compiled and is available throughout Newton-le-Willows and in libraries across St.Helens. At a later date there will also be an opportunity for young people involved in the project to choose a selection of books for the library.

 As part of Reading Lifelines we also hope to increase young peoples enjoyment of reading by offering reader centred activities at libraries and youth and community centres across St.Helens. These activities will include drama, competitions, visits form performance poets and much more.

 In Newton-le-Willows we are looking to produce a magazine style newsletter which will include book, film, magazine, website reviews and information about events at local libraries, youth and community centres.

 Centrally a Reading Lifelines website will be created and there may be an opportunity for people involved in the project to contribute.

 If you would like any more information about Reading Lifelines or you would like to become more involved, please contact Sharon Bates at the address above or by telephone on  01925 223729.