Affordable Summer Fun For Children In Devon At Your Local Library

The Summer Book Quest has begun in libraries, and children across Devon have signed up to read what they love and participate in fun activities under this year's theme of "Deep Sea Adventure". From drawing sea creatures and sharing fun deep-sea facts with librarians, to taking part in family-friendly quizzes and community litter picks – libraries across Devon have been diving into ocean-themed fun. Highlights include expert-led educational sessions such as "How Do Oceans Work?" with local oceanographer Helen Findlay at Tavistock Library, and Sea Science Adventures delivered by Devon Science in over 10 libraries. 

Throughout the summer holidays, libraries are hosting some incredible Summer Book Quest organised by our Creative Communities team and funded by Arts Council England. This funding allows us to create fun, affordable, creative workshops and storytelling performances  in a selection of our libraries for children of all ages. 

Cullompton Library, 31st July 

Deep Sea Printing 

Step into the magical world of printmaking with Double Elephant artist Simon Ripley. Make deep-sea-themed mini cardboard collagraph plates, then ink and print them to create imaginative pictures! 

Find out which other libraries Double Elephant is bringing their creative printmaking workshop to this summer here. 

Teignmouth Library, 4th August 

Craft Sea Creatures with Weird Sticks 

Join the Weird Sticks team in a workshop to use sustainable willow and materials saved from landfill to learn how to make exciting characters from The Summer Book Quest. Make your very own Ninja Starfish, Giant Jellyfish, or Pip and Zena's finned friend Sharky!  

Northam Library, 5th August 

Tales of the High Seas with Lisa Schneidau 

Discover tales of pirates, mermaids, and sea monsters as storyteller Lisa Schneidau brings the English coast to life with thrilling folk stories.   

Bideford Library, 20th August 

Felt Sea Creatures with Jess Carvil 

Bring the ocean to life through the enchanting art of wet felting in this immersive workshop. Using soft, hand-prepared pre-felt sheets and vibrant wool tops, each child will design an A5-sized seascape, layering textures, blending colours, and adding whimsical pre-cut elements to tell their own sea story.   

There's also plenty of other activities running in our libraries for children and families to enjoy over the summer holidays! Discover what's on near you: visit What's On