Virtual rhyme times, reading groups and Lego – commendation for Kirklees librarian efforts in lockdown
A Kirklees librarian has been commended for her role in maintaining and promoting e-resources during lockdown by national charity Libraries Connected.
A Customer Service Officer at Dewsbury Library since October 2013, Katherine Hornby has been commended for her contribution to the #LibrariesFromHome project managed by national charity Libraries Connected.
Katherine worked with Libraries Connected and fellow volunteers to maintain lists of library virtual rhyme times, reading groups and local library led digital book festivals, Lego clubs etc. contributing her time and skills to support the charity and the public library sector during this difficult period.
She responded to an appeal from the charity for staff to get involved following the closure of library buildings in March. They needed help to create a suite of resources for use by library staff across the UK. Katherine was selected to be a part of a dedicated team of 13 library staff.
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Corporate said:
“It’s fantastic that Katherine has been recognised for developing online resources for families in lockdown as part of the national #LibrariesFromHome project.”
“The recognition from Libraries Connected is further testament to the hard work that our library staff do to engage with our communities no matter what the circumstances. Congratulations Katherine.”
Katherine Hornby said:
“It’s given me the opportunity to meet and work with colleagues across the country and it’s been amazing to see the creativity, resilience and innovation throughout the sector while our buildings have been closed.
“The resources we have collected and produced have helped to connect people at what is, for many, a lonely and isolating time. Adults have been able to connect through common interests, taking part in reading groups and researching family history. Families have been able to easily access story times, rhyme times, Lego clubs and so much more, keeping children engaged and supporting early literacy and creative thinking.”
Access resources online
Kirklees Libraries members can access 1000’s of online resources including e-books, e-newspapers and e-magazines from the library online resource.
Well done Katie! And can I add here how wonderful the Libby App is. I have been able to download and read many books during Lockdown that I wouldn’t have had access to otherwise, not only for myself but also for my young son. It is an amazing resource which I am so glad I had access to.
Well done Katie, and all Libraries Connected colleagues for the fantastic resources that #LibrariesFromHome have provided. And well done to all at Kirklees Libraries for staying positive and keeping in touch with customers throughout these trying times.