John Biggs does about-turn on Idea Stores

Idea Stores across Tower Hamlets have been holding special events today, 3rd March, to celebrate World Book Day – an annual event organised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to promote reading.

John Biggs stirred up controversy during this year’s budget-making programme when he suggested that Idea Stores could be shut on Sundays to save money. Parents were furious that their Sunday trips to Idea Stores with their little ones were under threat and teenagers were furious that the resources they need to do their homework were about to be taken away.

Not surprisingly, given the backlash, John Biggs is now acknowledging the value that Idea Stores can provide on occasions such as World Book Day, saying: “Our Idea Stores are putting on a packed programme to bring the magic of reading to this borough’s children. This World Book Day, I hope that everyone is able to take advantage of our world-class libraries and find a book they love.”

Cllr Rabina Khan, pictured during the launch of her manifesto last year.

Cllr Rabina Khan, herself a published author, said: “It is good to see John Biggs support events the Idea Stores are putting on to mark World Book Day. Mums across the Borough cherish the service they provide all year round – helping the little ones learn to read, drawing older children into the magic of reading and then supporting teenagers studying for qualifications. I was astonished John Biggs was contemplating closing them down on Sundays – we need them all year round, not just on special days.”

Cllr Rabina Khan also revealed, exclusively to East London News, that she had participated in World Book Day. She said, “My young son dressed up as Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk for World Book Day. We made the costume together.” However, she also revealed there was a downside to the family fun, saying, “Sorry, Cllr Aminur Khan – we used your T-shirt!”

Events the Idea Stores have held today include familiarisation events coupled with a sign-up drive, a Children’s Book display, a quiz and a book club (Chrisp Street); storytelling sessions and a quiz (Watney Market); a fancy dress story time (Canary Wharf). Whitechapel Idea Store is extending their celebrations to Saturday, when it will be hosting a special World Book Day Art Club from 2.15-3.45pm for children aged 6-11, where children can choose their favourite book cover, character or comic hero and create their own poster celebrating World Book Day 2016.

Cllr Asma Begum, Cabinet Member for Culture also shrugged off the threats which had been made to the Idea Stores, saying: “Reading really can make a difference and transform lives.”

•For more information about events at Idea Stores, go to: www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/ideastore