Essex libraries are hosting a month-long series of events for people of all ages as part of the Essex Book Festival.

Established by Essex County Council in 1999, the Essex Book Festival has gone from strength to strength and is now run by a charitable trust from the Centre for Creative Writing at the University of Essex in Colchester.

With over 90 events taking place across the county, bibliophiles, culture vultures and people who simply like a laugh will love the roster of brilliant minds and creative talent descending on libraries, theatres, hotels and lecture halls throughout March 2017.

Although some popular events are sold out - such as the one involving Waterstones Book of the Year 2016 winner Sarah Perry, from Chelmsford – there is still plenty on offer.

Councillor Anne Brown, the Cabinet Member responsible for Libraries, said: “We are proud to play such a key part in the success of the Essex Book Festival, which is why Essex’s libraries are hosting a record 25 events this year.

“From children’s storytelling, creative writing workshops with best-selling authors, poetry and history events, there is something for everyone at the county’s libraries.”

Festival Director Ros Green added: “Essex Book Festival is spreading its wings in 2017. With over 90 events taking place in 40 venues across Essex, we have worked really hard to ensure that there is something for everyone.

“Whether that's our Science, Radio and Invention Day in Chelmsford, our Golden Age of Crime Weekend in Southend, or our Meet the Neighbours Day in Harlow, the plan is very much to reach the parts other festivals don't reach.”

For more information visit essexbookfestival.org.uk or libraries.essex.gov.uk/