Writing workshops and children’s crafts sessions are among activities planned in Wiltshire for National Libraries Day tomorrow (Saturday).

Pirates and princesses is the theme of an activity day at Westbury Library from 10am until noon, for parents and carers with children aged up to 11.

In Warminster Library, a drop-in crafts session will run from 10am until 3.30pm.

Children’s writer John Dougherty, author of Zeus on the Loose, Niteracy Hour and titles featuring the investigator Jack Slater, will be telling funny stories at Royal Wootton Bassett Library at 2.30pm.

Children and their parents are welcome to attend the event.

Mr Dougherty, who is passionate about reading and literacy, will be entertaining the audience with tales about characters from his books.

Entry is free, but booking is essential on 01793 853249.

In Marlborough, authors Mavis Cheek, James Aitcheson and Helen Slavin, who between them have covered contemporary and historical fiction, as well as radio and TV scripts, will be holding a workshop for budding writers.

The session starts at 2pm, and tickets are £3 from the library.

Children’s author Eileen Browne, who writes the Handa series of books, will be reading stories and drawing at Pewsey Library from 11am until 11.45am.

Wiltshire Council cabinet member Stuart Wheeler said: “National Libraries Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the vital role libraries play at the heart of local communities.

“I encourage all people to visit their local library, not just on February 4 but all year round and take advantage of the fantastic services they have to offer.”

The council committed itself to safeguarding all 31 of its libraries last year, partly by encouraging volunteer staff.

For more information about National Libraries Day, visit www.nationallibrariesday.org.uk