DAWLISH Library has received an early delivery of Christmas goodies this year in the shape of mystery parcels for adventurous readers. A selection of new books has been wrapped in Christmas paper and placed in a box. Readers choose a mystery wrapped book that is stamped out as a regular library book – but aren't allowed to open the wrapping and find out what the book is until they get home. Reader development officer Carol Ackroyd said: 'Staff start to collect up suitable new books which arrive in their branches several weeks beforehand, wrap them in Christmas paper and encourage readers to take them home as a surprise read – something they might not otherwise have chosen. 'We're asking readers to be a little bit brave and try something new. We're all guilty of going for the same sorts of books and not trying something new, so this is a fun way of widening people's horizons.' Executive member for culture, Cllr Sheila Hobden, said: 'The Christmas Surprise has gained momentum around our libraries over the years. 'Not only does it offer readers the chance to try something new, but it offers us a valuable opportunity to find out what they thought of the book via the comments slip inside. 'Readers are asked if they would have chosen the book, and what they enjoyed or didn't like about it. 'Some choose to add a small review of the book. Last year we had 400 reviews, many of them delighted to discover a new author. It all helps us keep in touch with what local people think.' The Christmas surprise book parcels will be available from Monday to 23.
