Preparations are being made to celebrate books and reading – while the future is considered for Dorset’s libraries.

Dorset Library Service will be promoting the printed word with a range of activities for adults, young people and children to highlight World Book Week which starts on Monday.

It will culminate with a celebration of World Book Night next Saturday.

This is happening as Dorset County Council moves to reduce the network of libraries from 34 to 14 and inviting local communities to take over responsibility for the remaining 20.

The council’s policy development panel will take on board views raised by councillors plus comments by various library Friends groups before embarking on public consultation in the spring.

Cabinet member for community services Hilary Cox said: “We recognise that libraries are essential in promoting reading, learning, public information and community activities.

“We are determined that, whatever happens, we will continue to provide an excellent core service which is accessible to all.”

Dorchester Library is one that is staying open and it will be the venue for a fascinating talk by Dorset author Sarah Challis next Saturday from 7pm to 9pm. She will be helping to celebrate reading and books by talking about how she writes, and in particular her latest novel, The Garden Party.

Tickets for the talk priced £3 are available from Waterstones in Dorchester or any Dorset library.

Meanwhile, youngsters had a special treat at Weymouth Library this week when a couple of colourful sisters popped in for some half-term fun.

The Sisters Grim, aka Teresa and Catherine Grimaldi, combined their skills of puppetry, illustration and contemporary textiles, to tell a colourful story based on a book written by Catherine.

She said: “We were really pleased to see so many young people attending the performances at the library.

“Although we live quite a distance away, we enjoy visiting Weymouth very much and hope to be back sometime later in the year.”

To find out how Dorset libraries are celebrating World Book Week visit dorsetforyou.com/libraries