Shaun the Sheep at Exeter Library model making and animation workshops

Libraries Unlimited are collaborating with Aardman to bring StoryFest to Exeter Library later this year. 

The week-long festival of reading takes place in October half term StoryFest kicks off at Exeter Library on 25 October for a full day of exciting live events including the Vegetable Orchestra, Shaun Dares Ewe, and special guest appearances from Shaun the Sheep himself!  

This will be followed by model making and animation at Exeter Library. 

Aardman’s expert model makers will be leading three days of hands-on workshops where children can learn clay modelling and animation techniques.  

There will also be other activities at a variety of libraries, with further details announced nearer the time. 

This includes libraries screening classic Aardman films, along with Aardman’s brand-new interactive AR trail, Wallace & Gromit: All Systems Go. 

Kate Turner, Head of Library Service & Customer Experience at Libraries Unlimited said: “We are really proud to be working with Aardman to be bring this exciting festival to children in Devon and Torbay. 

“With this collaboration we are aiming to foster a love of reading and engage children by using characters they know and love. It’s also an amazing opportunity to develop long-term skills in animation and creative arts. 

“We are hoping that the connection between Aardman and Libraries Unlimited will foster ongoing cultural enrichment for local communities. Jointly, we want StoryFest to leave a lasting impression on young participants, igniting a passion for reading, creativity, and libraries.”  

Molly Van Den Brink, Senior Attractions & Live Experiences Manager at Aardman added: “We love to use our characters to engage our fans with educational objectives and messaging, and this partnership is a fantastic way to encourage families to visit their local libraries, encourage them to get reading and highlight the wonderful work Libraries Unlimited have been doing to refresh these spaces and create an exciting programme of activities featuring our classic characters.”