What’s on in York: Big City Read 2016 launched today

Programme launch and event booking from 1st September

Big City Read 2016 LogoEvents from 5 October to 1 December

In July 1917, Siegfried Sassoon wrote an open letter to the Times protesting about the conduct of the war. What happened next is the subject of Pat Barker’s book Regeneration which will be our Big City Read for this year.

York Libraries are giving away 5,000 free copies of Regeneration over October and November and asking readers to immerse themselves in the world of 100 years ago.

click for summary

click for summary

“We have put together a fantastic programme of events, together with our partners in the city, which offers something for everyone.

We are delighted to be welcoming Pat Barker to both launch and conclude the Big City Read at York Explore.

You can download the programme here Big City Read 2016 Events, and find details of Big City Read events in our What’s On listing. Copies of the programme will be available from 6 September at all York Libraries and other outlets in York.

You can collect your free copy of Regeneration from any Explore Library from 6 October while stocks last.

Events can be booked from 1 September either in person at any library in York or by phone, (01904) 552828 or (01904) 552651.

We advise booking in advance for all of our events, if applicable, to make sure of a place.

Read, Enjoy, Discuss, Share”

York Council in circles over roundabout advertising?

The York Council has applied to itself for permission to install small sponsorship adverts on local roundabouts.

The sponsorship scheme was started 15 years ago and provides an income to cover the costs of maintaining decorative planting on the islands.

Quite why the Council has decided to refer the issue to a planning committee – with all that entails in additional time and costs – is unclear.  It would have been easier and quicker to delegate the decision to officials (unless any objections were received).Sponsored Tadcaster Road roundabout

The locations being discussed on 8th September include:

The Council receives around £25,000 a year from the sponsorship which is managed by a third party.  Around 30 sites are available to rent.