Essex Libraries is one of 10 library services across the eastern region to have secured funding to develop a joint summer reading and arts programme for young people in 2014.

A total of £93,000 has been awarded using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

The funding will enable library services to work with artists and young volunteers to develop a range of reading activities and arts workshops young people during the summer of 2014.

Councillor John Jowers, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for Libraries, Communities and Planning, said: “Essex Libraries are already running a very successful Summer Reading Challenge and now the additional funding will enable young people to express their reading through a range of art forms, learn new skills and to work with some high quality artists.”