School visits
Wrexham's Libraries are happy to welcome classes from nursery, infants, junior, and secondary schools for a visit to any one of their libraries. You will get a tour of your local library, children can join the library and take books out on the same day and sometimes we can even tell you a story or two (this activity to be arranged with your local library). This service is offered free of charge, visit www.wrexham.gov.uk/libraries for contact details of your nearest library. We look forward to seeing you soon!
'First Choice' books
Do you know someone who is struggling to read, or are you someone who needs to build your confidence with reading books? Wrexham Library has a selection of books to help you gain your confidence reading a book which will then enable you to relax and enjoy the stories being told. Books range from very basic short words and sentences, to short easy to read novels and the staff are there to help you choose the books that you feel most comfortable reading. Why not call in to see what we can do to help you?
Citizens Advice at Wrexham's Libraries
Citizens Advice are a network of independent charities offering confidential advice online, over the phone or in person. They give advice on consumer rights, support through the Witness Service, give pension guidance to people aged over 50, and guidance on more complex issues such as money problems, benefit queries and energy inquiries plus much more. If you feel you need unbiased independent advice on a matter that's important to you, call into one of their drop in sessions at Cefn Mawr Library on a Monday 1pm-4.30pm or Rhos Library on a Wednesday from 10am-noon. No appointment needed.
Embrace wellness
Wrexham Library in conjunction with Caia Park Partnership will be hosting some great wellness sessions throughout September covering mindfulness, meditation, anxiety and stress management. Four sessions a day will be held on September 5, 12, 19 and 26, from noon-4pm. Take the stress out of your life by reserving your free place by emailing alex.greene@caiapark.org
Gwersyllt Library new Reading Group
Research shows that participation in shared reading groups is linked to enhanced relaxation, calmness, concentration, quality of life, confidence and self-esteem, as well as feelings of shared community and common purpose plus you get to read some wonderful new books! Gwersyllt Library would like to start a new reading group for adults and they need your help. If you would like to meet new like-minded people, have a good chat about reading over a cuppa, then please contact Gwersyllt Library on 01978 722890. The first meeting will be held at the library on Monday, September 12, from 2pm-4pm. If you're thinking about joining a reading group, what are you waiting for?
Book Review
The Anglo-Saxons: A History of the Beginnings of England by Marc Morris
The Anglo-Saxons: A History of the Beginnings of England by Marc Morris
William the Conqueror, Offa, Ethelred the Unready, Edward the Confessor - all familiar names to anyone with even a passing interest in early English history - but how much do we really know about them? Marc Morris' acclaimed book turns these historical caricatures into historical characters and places them in their historical context. Making the most of very limited sources Morris describes how over 500 years small, warring, individual kingdoms consolidated into larger kingdoms with a sense of a unified 'English' identity, language and institutions. He particularly emphasises the growth and importance of the Christian church alongside the ruling and political classes. The book is chronological in its approach from the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons to the battle of Hastings. I have a couple of minor criticisms. The book is illustrated but it would have been nice to see more of the exquisite Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship. Also from a Welsh reader's point of view, it would have been interesting to know more about the Anglo-Saxon relationships with the Welsh chieftains and princes.
Perhaps the greatest compliment I can pay Marc Morris' volume is that it left me wanting to explore more about this fascinating period. Huw
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