Residents in West Bromwich, Oldbury and Rowley Regis are set to benefit from a new programme of arts, culture and creative learning.
Sandwell Libraries secured £99,908 from Arts Council England through National Lottery Project Grants for a new programme of cultural activity.
Making It in Sandwell is a 10-month creativity festival celebrating the borough's rich industrial heritage and vibrant creative talent. Beginning this October, the programme will bring a wide range of cultural activities into libraries across the three towns, helping more people access arts and culture within their local communities.
The programme will offer activities and events for families across a range of art forms, including dance, theatre, poetry, literature, visual arts and filmmaking. Led by local artists, creatives and volunteers, the activities will give residents the opportunity to get involved, develop new skills and explore their creativity, while young people can learn more about careers in the creative industries.
The project also supports the national Year of Reading 2026 and aims to encourage more people to take part in cultural activities through Sandwell's library network.
Funding has been awarded to focus activity specifically in West Bromwich, Oldbury and Rowley Regis, areas identified through the funding application as having lower levels of cultural activity. Other parts of the borough are benefiting from separate Arts Council-funded cultural programmes delivered by other organisations.
Councillor Michael Cooper, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Neighbourhoods, said: "Our libraries are at the heart of our communities and this funding will allow us to bring an exciting programme of creative activities to residents across West Bromwich, Oldbury and Rowley Regis.
"Making It in Sandwell will celebrate the borough's proud industrial and creative heritage while inspiring the next generation of artists, makers and creative professionals. I'm particularly pleased that local people will have opportunities to take part in activities, learn new skills and discover the range of creative opportunities available right here in Sandwell."
Events will be a mix of free activities and pay-what-you-can sessions, with a minimum suggested donation of £1.
Sandwell Libraries is also inviting local artists and creatives to apply for paid opportunities to help deliver family-friendly events and creative careers workshops as part of the festival. Complete the expression of interest form by 18 October. Call out for Sandwell Artist & Creatives!
The first events and activities will take place during the October half-term period and a full list of events is available on Visit Sandwell website.
Upcoming events:
Spooky Lantern Jar Making
Dates: 28 to 29 October
Times: various times
Venues: Rounds Green, Blackheath, Bleakhouse, Langley Libraries
Sandwell Story Bookmarks (drop in event)
Date: 18 November
Time: 10am to 1pm
Venue: Oldbury Library
Jack's Magic Panto Craft Workshop
Dates: 21 to 22 December
Times: various times
Venue: Central Library, West Bromwich
For more information about events, workshops and opportunities, visit your local library in West Bromwich, Oldbury or Rowley Regis, follow Sandwell Libraries on Facebook and Instagram, or visit www.visitsandwell.com