LIBRARIES across Ryedale are taking part in a national celebration of books and reading.

World Book Night, which takes place tomorrow (Thursday), is an annual event, which includes hundreds of books being given out to communities to encourage a love of reading.

Run by The Reading Agency, a national charity that inspires people to read, this year will be the fifth celebration and every library in Ryedale will be taking part.

Pickering library will celebrate with a screening of Water for Elephants’ at 7pm, and a free copy of the book will also be available to take away on the night.

Tickets are £3, to include popcorn and wine. The film night is suitable for ages 12 years and above.

Malton library is working with Ryedale Book Festival and will be opening from 6pm to 8pm for a promotional event and book giving.

Special invites have been sent to the Camphill Trust, Adult Learning Service, YMCA, Homeless Hostel, Acorn Community Care, Encephalitis Society, and Next Steps to come along to receive free books but everyone is welcome.

Both Ryedale Festival and Malton library have been successful in their bids for top titles and these will be shared around at the event. Soft drinks and savoury nibbles will also be served.

There will also be a book-swap stall, a chance to write your own reviews and advice on how to set up a book group.

At Norton library there will be a display of World Book Night titles to browse and a book lovers’ quiz to test your knowledge from 10am to noon.

Volunteers from Kirkbymoorside library will be running a children’s after-school Harry Potter event tomorrow (Thursday), from 4pm onwards, with a mix of quizzes, word searches and a treasure hunt.

There is also a family book quiz at The King’s Head pub starting at 8pm.

In Helmsley, library staff will be handing out free books in the Market Place from 10am to 11am, on Friday.

Heather French, the county library service’s development officer, said: “Every year the selection of free books is brilliant, but with this year’s choice of leading writers such as Robin Hobb (Assassin’s Apprentice), and Minette Walters (Chickenfeed), there is something for every taste.

“Just bring along your library card to take a free book while stocks last.

“Not a member, not a problem, you can join on the night – spread the word – everyone certainly loves a good book.”

For more information, phone 01609 536125 or visit your local library.