An exhibition celebrating the importance of reading for pleasure, as well as its social and emotional impact, has been shortlisted for two prestigious honours.
The My Books, My Story project, co-created by some of the county council's children in care, is through to the finals of the wellbeing category in the National Children and Young People awards category and is also up for a Children and Young People Now accolade.
More than 50 youngsters from across the county came forward to join the year-long artwork project, developed and led by the cultural participation team, which supports engagement with heritage and library services.
“I’m delighted that this inspiring project has received the attention it deserves. All the hard work has paid off, and again illustrates how incredible our children in care are. They have developed an exhibition which has engaged and inspired children, young people and adults to read for pleasure.
Person:Councillor Christine Radford, cabinet member for adults and communitiesOriginally a pop-up display at the Highcross shopping centre in Leicester, the art has now been transformed into a virtual exhibition which can be viewed digitally at www.cultureleicestershire.co.uk
Libraries across the county are hosting pop-up displays showcasing the work and a book showing the art - which also reflects on the impact of the project - is being published and will be available to buy.
The participation team supported the children and young people in creating their work through school visits, library and museum trips, workshops, home visits, virtual school book groups and a trip to the zoo.
Councillor Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families, said: “The team saw how children and young people grow when introduced to sharing books together and how books and stories have helped them with problem-solving, life choices, role modelling, empathy and relationships at home.
“I am thrilled that the work of everyone has been recognised for both nominations, and that the children are getting the recognition of just how brilliant they are.”
The winners of the National Children and Young Peoples Awards will be announced at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 6 October 2022.
The winners of the Children and Young People Now Awards 2022 will be announced at the Hurlingham Club in London on Thursday 24 November 2022.