A CEREDIGION library recently had a visit from a renowned author.

Joseph Coelho – the Waterstones Children’s Laureate 2022-2024 – visited Lampeter Library on Monday, September 11.

The visit was part of his nationwide library marathon, where he joined a library in every local authority in the UK.

He was joined at Lampeter Library by Year 6 pupils from Ysgol Bro Pedr for an afternoon of storytelling and poetry. During the afternoon, Mr Coelho shared his passion for books whilst inspiring many creative ideas from the children.

Tivyside Advertiser: Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho visited Lampeter LibraryWaterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho visited Lampeter Library (Image: Ceredigion County Council)

Mr Coelho said: “Libraries made me a writer and make communities thrive. I’m immensely grateful to libraries and the services they provide, so I want to use my platform as the Waterstones Children’s Laureate to champion these essential launchpads of learning. I want to hug every library, these miraculous institutions where new horizons line the shelves, where minds go to grow.”

Delyth Huws, children’s librarian at Ceredigion Library Service, said: “It was such an honour to welcome Joseph Coelho to Lampeter Library. Sharing stories and reading together brings so many wide-ranging benefits to children and, with the current cost-of-living crisis, libraries offer a safe and warm space, packed full of fabulous books, that will encourage and inspire children of all ages and positively affect their lives.”

The aim of Mr Coelho’s visit was to promote libraries and a love of reading, encouraging all people – whatever their age – to join their local library.