IDDESLEIGH author Michael Morpurgo helped to officially launch the independent organisation now running Devon’s libraries.

Libraries Unlimited, a staff and community-owned social enterprise, took over the running of 50 libraries across Devon from April 1. Mr Morpurgo helped the launch of Libraries Unlimited on World Book Night.

World Book Night is an annual celebration of reading and books. It sees passionate volunteers give hundreds of thousands of books away in their communities to share their love of reading with people who, for whatever reason, don’t read for pleasure or own books.

Ciara Eastell, chief executive of Libraries Unlimited, said: ‘World Book Night is a fantastic opportunity to unite individuals from across the county who have a passion for reading and at the same time establish ourselves as the new service provider for library services in Devon. We are so pleased Michael was able to join us and share not only in our continued commitment to providing a modern, vibrant and sustainable library service but in celebrating this wonderful evening of community spirit.’

To find out more about Libraries Unlimited and the services they are running across Devon’s Libraries please visit www.librariesunlimited.org.uk