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 the funding through National Lottery Project Grants for the new cultural activity programme.
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, aiming to increase access to arts and culture within local communities.
The programme will offer activities and events for families across various art forms, including dance, theatre, poetry, literature, visual arts, and filmmaking. Led by local artists, creatives, and volunteers, these activities will provide opportunities for residents to get involved, develop new skills, and explore their creativity. Young people will also learn about careers in the creative industries.
The project supports the national Year of Reading 2026 and aims to encourage greater participation in cultural activities through Sandwell's library network. Funding has been specifically allocated to areas identified as having lower levels of cultural activity: West Bromwich, Oldbury, and Rowley Regis.
Councillor Michael Cooper, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Neighbourhoods, stated: "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 include 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 deliver family-friendly events and creative careers workshops. The expression of interest form is due by 18 October.
The first events are scheduled for the October half-term period. Upcoming events include 'Spooky Lantern Jar Making' on 28 to 29 October at Rounds Green, Blackheath, Bleakhouse, and Langley Libraries; 'Sandwell Story Bookmarks' on 18 November at Oldbury Library; and 'Jack's Magic Panto Craft Workshop' on 21 to 22 December at Central Library, West Bromwich.
