Creating Worlds at Mountsorrel Library
Project Aims and Background
For the first time our Arts Council England funded Creative Expression in Libraries programme is taking place in one of Leicestershire’s independent community managed libraries. Mountsorrel Library is run by Mountsorrel Parish Council and supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and one of Culture Leicestershire’s Community Managed Libraries Support Officers. The library is a vibrant community hub and they were keen to connect with their local primary school, which is a key aim of this project.
The project brought children and the local library together to co-create an artistic installation that enhanced the library space and encouraged more young visitors. It also renewed the relationship between the library and Christ Church and St Peter’s CofE Primary School, leading to increased engagement and ongoing visits.
The school’s new leadership embraced the partnership from the outset, actively supporting both the project and the selection of a creative practitioner. Following a competitive process, Paper Rhino was appointed to work with the children to design characters and story worlds for a portable wooden storyboard.
Following the workshops, which you can read about below, the new storyboard was launched in September 2026. As soon as it was in the children’s area it was being used. The board will now be available for children to use in the library, when the library volunteers visit other venues and it can be extended and added to over time.
To find about more about this project please email helen.murray@leics.gov.uk
About Mountsorrel Library
Mountsorrel Library is a Community Managed Library (CML), run by Mountsorrel Parish Council and supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. The library plays a vital role in the community, offering access to books, learning opportunities and creative activities, and is committed to providing welcoming, inclusive experiences for children and young people.
Click here for more about Mountsorrel Library
