Inspire Mansfield Central Library

We’re trying something new! ✨

Every fortnight we will share what we consider ‘top-notch’ favourites that range from fantasy to thrillers and beyond.

First up, is a book that exceeded all expectations. Children of the Sun by Beth Lewis is a clever page- turner that keeps readers engaged with characters that learn what prices they are willing to pay for a second chance. 📚

If you’d like to give this book a go, you can order a copy through our online catalogue for as little as 30p 👉 https://nottslibraries.inspireculture.org.uk/

Happy - we need you! We're looking for volunteers to help out at our Chess Club here at Mansfield Central Library! 🏁♟️

Playing chess is a great way for members of our community to meet new people, relax, and unwind. Chess Clubs are open to everyone willing to learn how to play the game. As a Chess Club Volunteer, here's what you'll be up to:

⬛ Welcome those attending the club
⬜ Help set up and clear away the space
⬛ Help set up games and encourage people to join in
⬜ Promote the Chess Club and encourage others to attend

Our club runs every first and third Saturday of the month, from 11am - 1pm. Think you'd like to get involved? Visit our website to find out more and apply: https://inspireculture.volunteermakers.org/get-involved/regular/mansfieldlibrarychessclubvolunteer/371/

Libraries Change Lives week has reminded us again just how valuable our services are to people in the community 💕

From Retford to East Leake, Huthwaite to Balderton, libraries up and down our county have been sharing the best parts of themselves in a bid to spread the love. Lots of our libraries hosted author events this week including West Bridgford and Worksop libraries. Some shared stories with families and got crafty afterwards, and others took us on a virtual tour of their buildings! Let us know if you explored your local library this week 💬

Did you know that an estimated 15.6 million adults in the UK are library members? Share your local library with someone you care about and help us give communities an even bigger boost this 📚 Join online for FREE at inspireculture.org.uk/join


Nottinghamshire County Council

Are you an adult planning to take GCSE Mathematics this September, but want to feel completely confident before day one? 🤔

Enrol now for the FREE Inspire Learning Pre-GCSE Algebra course, and boost your skills in preparation to begin the GCSE course! 🤩

Our targeted, 5-week online course, led by our friendly and supportive tutors, is specifically designed to bridge the gap between Functional Skills and the full GCSE curriculum.

Because Functional Skills qualifications feature minimal algebra, this short programme focuses on building essential algebraic skills up to GCSE Grade 3.

This course is ideal for current Level 2 learners, anyone with a GCSE Grade 3/D, or any student planning to enrol on the full GCSE course in September who wants to brush up on their skills. We also warmly welcome parents and guardians looking to support children in Key Stage 3 or 4 education! 🤗

This FREE online course takes place on Tuesdays, starting from 16 June, 9:30am - 12:30pm.

Find out more or book your spot today at: https://bit.ly/4epnFpZ

InspiREAD 2026 - Meet the nominees! ✨

Daniel Duncan is the illustrator of Bobby Bains Plays a Blinder - one of the amazing books nominated in our Longer Book category ⚽

Daniel predominantly uses pencil accompanied by digital illustration techniques in his work. He loves football as much as he loves drawing, so illustrating a book with football as a big theme was really fun!

Find out more about InspiREAD 2026 and cast your vote - link in the comment section below 👇

InspiREAD 2026 - Meet the nominees! ✨

Bali Rai is the author of Bobby Bains Plays a Blinder - one of the amazing books nominated in our Longer Book category - The Official Bali Rai ⚽

He has been writing short stories and poetry since the age of eight, and he's written more than 50 books since 2001! 🤯

Find out more about InspiREAD 2026 and cast your vote - link in the comment section below 👇

Coming up next month! 🤩

Magical Major Oak is returning to Mansfield Central Library this summer! Dip beneath the surface of the pond to explore a shimmering place of magic and mystery. Join Marian as she travels through this underwater world and meet new friends along the way. 🫧

📍Monday 13th July
📍Mansfield Central Library
📍£2 per person

For further information visit 👉 https://www.inspireculture.org.uk/arts-culture/children-and-young-peoples/the-magical-major-oak-down-in-the-pond/

Service disruption update - Online library catalogue 📚

Following yesterday evening's disruption, the online catalogue is now available. However, users may encounter problems in performance while our suppliers resolve the issue. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this.

Stay up to date with service disruptions at inspireculture.org.uk/service-disruption

InspiREAD 2026 - Meet the nominees! ✨

Dotty Sutton is the illustrator of Scarlet Defender of the Universe - one of the amazing books nominated in our Longer Book category 🦸‍♀️

She's an Edinburgh-based illustrator and model maker. The dictionary definition of ‘dotty’ is ‘eccentric or slightly mad’, which is a description she is rather flattered by! 🤩

Find out more about InspiREAD 2026 and cast your vote - link in the comment section below 👇