Love Libraries Award finalist 2007
Variety Shows in Lambeth Libraries
Lambeth Libraries are entertaining young people with evening variety shows that showcase the local talents of singers, dancers, poets, performers and musicians in a safe environment.
The shows are introducing young people from diverse backgrounds to all the great things libraries offer in an exciting and enjoyable way.
Lambeth Libraries are also hosting youth debates giving young people an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues close to their hearts, such as the influence of Rap music on youth culture.
“If Lambeth Libraries win the Love Libraries Award it would enable our continued commitment of library
services to young people. Young people have varying needs for library use which includes a place to
study with appropriate resources, a safe place to be in, as well as a community place to enjoy an evening
of entertainment.”
Sandra Davidson, Senior Children and Young People’s Services Librarian, London Borough of Lambeth
“Not
only have youngsters come along, they’ve expressed passionate views ranging from how to improve
their lives through to the abolition of slavery. They are coming in greater numbers, this is quite an
achievement in such a short time as it can be notoriously difficult to reach youngsters in the urban
environment, bombarded as they are by myspace, iPods and MTV base street culture.”
Henry Bonsu, Professional Broadcaster
“Lambeth Libraries organise loads of interesting events for young people. Earlier this year I attended
a debate about being Black and British. It was very interesting and encouraged me to learn more about
my background. I also attended a variety show in Brixton Library, it was fantastic to see so many young
people there rather than being on the streets. I enjoyed all the acts and they all inspired me and I am now
taking dance classes because of the standard I saw at the show. I hope to attend a lot more events in
libraries. I would like to thank Lambeth Libraries for their contribution to my life ‘s choices and changes’
Young library user
What do you love about Variety Shows?
“Lambeth Library does a fantastic job in providing a facility to which children can go after school when they can not return home as their parents are working. It is good to see that the library are now taking this several stages further.”
Visit Lambeth Libraries in London online
