An innovative storytelling method developed at a Dingwall library is being rolled out across the country following its resounding success.
The Heartstone Story Circle began earlier this year, allowing children aged between nine and 12 the opportunity to participate in discussion and debate on the themes of prejudice, intolerance and hate crime.
The project, which is open to pupils from Obsdale Primary in Alness and Dingwall Academy students focused on reading The Heartstone Odyssey book every week.
And now, on the back of the initiative’s success, it will go before ministers at the Scottish Parliament in a bid to see it replicated and delivered to libraries up and down the country.
Dingwall Library assistants Joolz Christie and Amy Macaskill will take the concept to the Scottish Parliament in January to display just how the story circle has ignited the interest of reading for the children participating.
Sita Kumari, director of Heartstone, said: “I am delighted the very first library-based Heartstone Story Circle took shape in Dingwall, the home of Heartstone, and it has been such a success.
“We look forward to seeing this project spread to libraries throughout the land.”
On the back of the success of the project, similar initiatives have been launched in Greater Manchester, Lancashire and London.
The children attending created art, poetry, and other items, which were subsequently displayed at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery as part of the venture.
Carmen Garcia-Pagan, the library’s supervisor, said: “It’s wonderful to see the library being utilised to engage young people in such a worthwhile and important project.”
