A BLAENAU Gwent library was transformed into a literary wonderland to celebrate the end of a summer reading project.

More than 150 adults and children attended a special themed event at Abertillery Library, linked to the 'Adventures in Wonderland' initiative.

The Adventures in Wonderland Project was a library based reading initiative developed with a range of partners including Head4Arts, Cardiff University, Literature Wales, Betwyll and Twletteratura.

Focused around Lewis Carroll’s classic book ‘Adventures in Wonderland’, the project linked reading with digital literacy and enabled the libraries service in Blaenau Gwent to engage with new users, promoting reading through a fun web based app.

The tool allowed participants to share their thoughts and comments on the book with each other via a twitter-like platform.

Staff transformed Abertillery Library into a fun-filled Wonderland with a variety of themed decorations, props and a special exhibition of artwork that had been produced by participants throughout the project.

Throughout the afternoon there were lots of free activities to keep visitors entertained, including arts and craft activities, printing press workshops, games, face painting and storytelling.

There was even a grand afternoon tea stand offering free Alice in Wonderland themed refreshments and cakes to participants to keep them energized.

Mel Smith, a volunteer with the project said of her Adventures in Wonderland experience; “This has been such an exciting project to be involved with, it gives people the opportunity to get creative and makes reading fun.”

Tracy Jones, the library services manager said: “This has been a successful example of how libraries are still relevant today, by working collaboratively and engaging the community in new ways of reading.”

Kate Strudwick, Creative Project Manager at Head4Arts added: “Adventures in Wonderland has been a milestone project for us, both in terms of partnership and in exploring new ways to have fun inspired by reading.”

Alun Davies, the Blaenau Gwent AM, said; “I enjoyed attending the Adventures in Wonderland event at Abertillery Library.

“It was great to see the library so full and vibrant. It was also nice to see so many children using their imaginations and enjoying the activities on offer."

For more information on the facilities and services provided by Blaenau Gwent libraries, go to aneurinleisure.org.uk/heritage/libraries or go to facebook.com/BlaenauGwentLibraries/.