AN EVENING book party is being thrown at Lewisham Library tomorrow to celebrate World Book Night.

Book-lovers can come along to the free after-hours event at the revamped library on April 23 at 8pm.

World Book Night, which takes place on Shakespeare’s birthday, is a celebration of reading and recommending great reads and people are asked to bring along a used book to swap.

There will also be a chance to meet and hear from writers Blake Morrison, Sarah Mussi, Nii Ayikwei Parkes, Lydia Syson and Sandra Agard.

Lewisham Council cabinet member for community services and older people Councillor Chris Best will be at the event and 'gifting' Damage by Josephine Hart.

He said: “I am delighted that the library service and staff at Lewisham Library in particular are supporting World Book Night.

“Our libraries, of course, provide access to ‘free books’ all year around, but this event goes one step further in that it makes reading into a shared social activity.”

Booking is essential and can made in person at the library in Lewisham High Street or by calling 020 8314 8430 or emailing libraries@lewisham.gov.uk

World Book Night festivities are also taking place at the Eltham Centre Library on April 23 from 6pm.

Local author James Benmore will be at the event and the winners of the Eltham in Verse competition will be announced.

For more information contact Paula at paula.bellamy@gll.org or call 020 8319 5878.