Families looking for ways to keep children entertained over the May half-term break are being encouraged to head to Isle of Wight libraries, where a packed programme of free activities is on offer.

From storytelling sessions to themed crafts, Isle of Wight Council libraries across the Island are hosting a wide range of events designed to keep young minds busy.

Ryde Library will kick off the programme with a special story time and craft session led by children’s author Lizzie Boynton. Young visitors can return later in the week for a bee-themed craft session.

Animal lovers are also well catered for, with Freshwater Library hosting a quirky bird craft and Ventnor Library offering a rocking sheep activity.

Meanwhile, Lord Louis Library in Newport will be making tiger masks, inspired by the ‘Art on Your Doorstep’ trail, which features 18 artworks around the town.

Elsewhere, Sandown Library will run a bead keyring craft, while Cowes Library promises a slightly spooky twist with Adam’s monster-making workshop.

Louise Emery, development librarian, said: “Our libraries are at the heart of the community and we’re delighted to be offering such a wide range of free activities this half term.

“There really is something for everyone, whether children enjoy stories, crafts or just the chance to get creative, and we’d encourage families to come along and get involved.”

Organisers say there is “something for everyone” across the Island’s libraries during the half-term break.

For full details of events and other services, visit the Isle of Wight library service website or follow @IWLibraries on Facebook.

What’s on

Ryde Library

• Wander – story time and craft with Lizzie Boynton
  Wednesday, May 27, 10.30am–11.30am (ages 3+, drop-in)
• Bee story time and craft
  Saturday, May 30, 10.30am–12pm (ages 3+, drop-in)

Freshwater Library

• Quirky Birds
  Wednesday, May 27, 2pm–4pm (ages 3+, drop-in)

Lord Louis Library (Newport)

• Make your own tiger mask
  Thursday, May 28, 2.30pm–4pm (ages 4+, booking essential)
• Teen rock painting
  Friday, May 29, 2.30pm–4pm (ages 12–16, drop-in)
• Make giant flowers for the children’s library
  Saturday, May 30, 2.30pm–4.30pm (ages 4+, drop-in)

Cowes Library

• Adam’s Monster Making Workshop
  Friday, May 29, 10am–12pm (all ages, drop-in)

Sandown Library

• Make a bead key ring
  Saturday, May 30, 10.30am–11.30am (ages 4+, booking essential)

Ventnor Library

• Rocking sheep craft
  Saturday, May 30, 10.30am–11.30am (ages 4+, drop-in)