FEW things can beat the joy of reading a good book. And while we might be in lockdown Bury is preparing to join thousands around the globe in celebrating all things literature.

World Book Night is set to take place on April 23 ­— the anniversary of Shakespeare's birth.

And to mark the occasion a host of fun-filled activities for people to join in with at home have been created by Bury Library Services.

So why not get involved with one of the following:

Reading hour

A borough-wide Reading Hour will take place between 7pm and 8pm on April 23.

All you need to take part is a book ­— whether you take the time to read by yourself, with your children as you put them to sleep, or when you are making your evening meal.

Participants are also being encouraged to take a photo during the hour and share it on social media using #Readinghour.

Download free eBooks

Looking for something new to read? Why not borrow and eBook or eAudiobook for free from the council's Borrowbox service.

Free eAudiobooks are also available from uLIBRARY.

For more information visit: www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15336

Or for recommendations on great books to read from the Library Services team visit www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=14984

Rhyme Time sessions

Youngsters can sing along to traditional children's rhymes with Sarah every Tuesday from 10.30am.

To join the online sessions visit www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=252148665825206&ref=watch_permalink

Dinosaurs Didn't Read podcast

Listen to a fun chat about books and reading at www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=14720

Join the library

Get instant access to all the libraries' wonderful books by simply joining online at www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15302

Councillor Sharon Briggs, cabinet member for communities, said: “Reading for pleasure is something that so many Bury residents enjoy, and there’s no reason for that to stop now.

"It’s vital that we follow the guidance and stay at home and keep safe, but we can all keep in touch with the library service and support one another together.”

Fore more information on World Book Night visit worldbooknight.org