Mary-Ann Ochota presents Secret Leeds

Hosted by TV presenter and author Mary-Ann Ochota we welcome local history buffs to a series of short presentations and a panel discussion with local experts from the University of Leeds, West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service and Leeds Archives on the compelling secrets hidden in Leeds’ archaeology, archives and libraries with ideas about how you can use these troves to bring the past to life.

Literary Journeys with Tracy Chevalier

Bestselling author of eleven acclaimed novels, Tracy Chevalier is expert at setting her stories in other times and places, thereby transporting the reader on fictional journeys through her carefully researched and skilful writing. 

We welcome her to Leeds to introduce her latest story The Glassmaker, to discuss her craft and the importance of reading for pleasure with Rebecca Fletcher on behalf of The Queen’s Reading Room, a reading charity and podcast.

Tilly Lockey: Overcoming Adversity and Embracing the Future

At just 15 months Tilly Lockey lost both of her arms due to a rare medical circumstance that put her life at risk. From surviving against all odds, Tilly has learned to embrace human augmentation, is a pioneer of robotic technology and has adapted to a world that wasn’t meant for her body. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by a brave and determined young advocate, model, and tech pioneer who is rewriting the narrative on diversity and innovation.

What’s it like to work in a Health Library?

At this informal and friendly session you will hear from a number of librarians and information professionals who are working to support various health services across the city. 

Visitors are welcome to this event at the LGI irrespective of their background, age, qualifications or aspirations. After the presentations and Q&A with the panel everyone is invited to join a tour of the hospital’s library.

Supporting Dyslexic Children to Read for Pleasure

Join Sarah Tyson from Books Up North as she speaks with special guests Eve Wersocki Morris (children’s author and PR expert) and Josh Sendall (Director of Library Services at the University of Leeds) about their personal experiences of growing-up with dyslexia and invites them to share some practical ideas and asks for their suggestions and tips about how you can best support dyslexic children to enjoy reading in an educational setting and at home.

Chris Nickson: Them Without Pain

Join Leeds author Chris Nickson for a discussion of his new novel Them Without Pain. The latest of Chris’ historical, Leeds based crime novels, Them Without Pain is inspired by the story of Arthur Mangey, a goldsmith who made the Leeds Mace in 1696 and was hanged for treason two years later. The evidence was flimsy, his accuser of dubious reputation… delve into the world of this lesser-known Leeds tale as Chris talks about the inspiration for his new novel, his writing process and of using Leeds as his creative backdrop in turning history into fiction.

Writers' Open Mic Night

Join us for a relaxed evening celebrating and sharing local writing. Whether you are a budding poet, have begun work on your own novel or are a published writer, we want to hear from you.

Writers are invited to read a 5 minute taster of their work. Tickets are also available for audience members to enjoy the evening and be inspired.

Delivered in collaboration with Farsley Library Writers Group. This event is part of Ink Slingers - Farsley Literature Festival.

The Well-Dressed Spy: Bond, The Avengers and Swinging London

Writer, movie critic and film/television historian Ian Fryer presents a preview of his next title, Spy Boom: How Secret Agents Ruled the Sixties. 

Learn what the well-dressed spy was wearing, from their Walther PPK to hand-made suits and fighting leathers and why it was so important for Britain's self-image as London began to swing.

Part of Farsley Literature Festival.

Tony Blackburn: Sounds of the 60s Live

Hosted by BBC Radio 2’s Tony Blackburn OBE.

Every week, listeners across the UK tune into BBC Radio 2 to hear the legendary Tony Blackburn play the greatest songs of the 60s. Now, the legendary DJ will take his Sounds of the 60s show on the road, for a UK tour celebrating the music of this much-loved decade.

Featuring stories and songs from perhaps the most iconic 10 years in music, fashion, and popular culture, the Sounds of the 60s tour will bring memories of the era to life.

John Lydon: I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right

He’s a legend and an icon, a revolutionary and an immortal.

John Lydon – aka Johnny Rotten – changed the face of music and sparked a cultural revolution. The frontman and lyricist of the Sex Pistols and Public Image Ltd (PiL) caused a political earthquake and transformed music for good. In his spoken word show, I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right, Lydon is touring the UK. He will talk about how he sees life, along with his unique and extraordinary career, and take audience questions during a pyrotechnic, one-off tour.