Creative Writing in the Library
Kirklees library, Dewsbury College, West Yorkshire Probation Service
Selection of books from Dewsbury library used during the course
A 15 hour creative writing course was run in Dewsbury library, in partnership with Dewsbury College, for learners referred by the probation service.
The course used library books as a starting point for creative writing activities. Each week, the tutor took a different topic, including ‘all about me’, living in Kirklees, poetry and thrillers. A selection of relevant library books were used as a starting point for learners to produce their own pieces of writing.
The course also encouraged students to handle and explore books. For example, as an ice breaker, learners were given a chance to look round the library and choose a book that appealed to them to discuss with the rest of the class.
Library computers were used to type up written work.
Learners' Comments
“I’m really enjoying what we are doing, and the practice tests we have been sitting seem a lot easier than I thought they would be.”
“I am enjoying learning for my own pleasure, and this class is proving to be ideal. I was silly at school and this is my chance to take in stuff now I am a bit older.”
Tutor’s comment
“Basing the course in the library enabled us to access a broad range of resources. These certainly inspired the students.”
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