Golcar Library welcomes world famous author Lee Child
We hosted a very special literary event when internationally renowned author Lee Child visited Huddersfield.
The author – whose Jack Reacher novels and other stories have sold over 200 million copies worldwide, inspired blockbuster films and a hit television series – spent the morning at Golcar Library.
Lee began the day with a short walk through the village, talking to local residents on their doorstep. He then arrived at the library, where the audience enjoyed a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the world’s most successful thriller writers.
Lee spoke about many topics, including the importance of libraries in removing barriers to knowledge and acting as public hubs. He praised Kirklees Council’s libraries for creating strong, connected communities.
Lee went on to describe the support he provides to the national Prison Service, visiting inmates to encourage reading and improving literacy levels.
He spoke at length of his own love for reading and his many childhood years spent in libraries, which helped him to develop his voice long before he wrote professionally. Lee added that his own success as a writer has brought opportunities and experiences he could not have imagined as a little boy sat with a book.
Cllr Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet member for Communities and Environment, said:
“This was an extraordinary moment for Golcar and for Kirklees as a whole. Hosting an author whose work is enjoyed worldwide shows how our libraries can bring truly world-class events to local communities.
“It’s another example of libraries across Kirklees offering brilliant opportunities for our residents and visitors. We would like to thank Lee for giving up his time and inspiring those who met him.”
Residents at the event described it as “amazing” and “unbelievable”. Lee also presented the library with two signed books which will be the centrepiece of a display at Golcar in the new year.
The visit came as Kirklees Libraries are gearing up for more special events throughout 2026 as part of the National Year of Reading.
This is a UK-wide campaign, led by the National Literacy Trust and supported by the Department for Education, to encourage reading for pleasure among all ages.
For more information about Kirklees Libraries and future events, visit the Kirklees Libraries website.