Knowsley Libraries are preparing to celebrate the power of reading, writing and storytelling with the launch of the borough’s first-ever Knowsley Literature Festival this summer.
Taking place during the National Year of Reading, the ambitious new festival will bring acclaimed authors, poets and screenwriters to libraries across Knowsley, allowing residents to enjoy a packed programme of literary events on their doorstep.
The festival has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Project Grants funding through Arts Council England, enabling Knowsley Libraries to create an inclusive programme designed to inspire readers, writers and aspiring creatives of all ages.
Running from 15 to 26 June, the festival will take place across libraries in Huyton, Kirkby, Halewood, Prescot and Stockbridge Village, while a wider programme of writing projects and author events will continue throughout the year.
Knowsley Literature Festival Brings Acclaimed Authors to Local Libraries
The festival will feature a series of author talks, readings and discussions led by some of the UK’s most respected writers, offering local residents a rare chance to meet published authors close to home.
A major highlight will be a special launch event with award-winning screenwriter and Liverpool-born television writer Jimmy McGovern, who will appear at Huyton Library on 18 May ahead of the main festival programme.
The festival line-up also includes crime writers, poets, novelists and literary experts who will host events across Knowsley’s library network.
Confirmed appearances include:
- * Andrea Christodoulou at Kirkby Library
- * Ramsey Campbell at Halewood Library
- * Zoe Richards at Huyton Library
- * Sean Watkin, T M Payne and Sarah Moorehead at Huyton Library
- * Eliza Morton at Stockbridge Village and Prescot Libraries
- * Sean Watkin at Kirkby Library
New Creative Writing Project to Inspire Future Knowsley Authors
Alongside the festival, Knowsley Libraries has launched a major community writing initiative called ‘Write in the Heart of Knowsley.’
The free six-month programme is designed to nurture local talent and encourage people to develop their writing skills through a series of accessible workshops.
Sessions will be led by established authors Zoe Richards and JP Maxwell, alongside renowned Liverpool poet Joseph Roberts, providing participants with the opportunity to learn from experienced creative professionals.
The initiative forms part of a wider commitment by Knowsley Libraries to encourage a lifelong love of reading and creativity across the borough.
The funding will also support a programme of author visits to local schools, helping to inspire young people and introduce them to the possibilities that reading and creative writing can offer.
As one of the biggest literary initiatives ever undertaken by Knowsley Libraries, organisers hope the festival will leave a lasting legacy, encouraging more people to discover local libraries, engage with literature and develop their own creative talents.
Additional events and workshops will continue throughout the year, including appearances from Margaret Murphy and Helen Pepper at Huyton Library in July.
Further details about the Knowsley Literature Festival and the Write in the Heart of Knowsley programme will be announced through Knowsley Council and library channels.
