AN AWARD winning author has declared Cumnock as a top spot on his mammoth Library Marathon.

Joseph Coelho visited Cumnock Library as part of a major UK tour aimed to inspire more kids into reading.

He has a great love of libraries which stems right back to his childhood in London.

The talented writer says he didn’t come from a home of books but what cultivated his love of literature was that he lived right next door to a library and without it he wouldn’t have the love of stories that he has now.

In a bid to encourage children to use their local library and change the image of libraries being big silent unfriendly places, he has decided to join a library in every authority of the UK.

That’s an amazing 209 libraries, demonstrating just how incredible these spaces are and hopefully encouraging children to join their local branch.

He said:”Libraries are welcoming places with friendly staff always willing to help you choose something to read, there are lots of free activities for children to enjoy.

“Children can come along and enjoy with other children with their mums and dads too.”

Joseph Coelho is a performance poet and playwright. His plays have received special note from The Verity Bargate Award and The Bruntwood Playwriting Competition.

Go along and visit the local library that has something for everyone.

Take part in book groups, summer reading challenges, as well as bookbug and chitchat sessions.