DEVON'S libraries will be in the international spotlight this month when they showcase their work to visitors from six European countries.

Library and learning professionals from Denmark, Sweden, Slovenia, Spain, Italy and Bulgaria are visiting the county to find out how the council, through its library service, and other organisations, are providing opportunities for older people to learn new skills.

The European visitors will be shown how libraries are using ‘UK Online’, a training package to introduce people to computers and the internet.

The Upstream Healthy Living Centre in Crediton, Age Concern Devon, and the University of the Third Age, will also be showcasing their work, which is providing similar learning opportunities for older people.

The visitors are from public libraries in Roskilde, Denmark; Kranj,Slovenia; Varna, Bulgaria; Vara, Sweden, and from agencies in Samoggia, Italy, and Mazaricos in Spain.

The purpose of their visit is to share examples of good work, and to encourage the exchange of initiatives that are working.

County councillor Stuart Barker, cabinet member with responsibility for Devon’s libraries, said: “Many of Devon’s libraries run informal opportunities for people to learn new skills, such as how to use a computer and access the internet for example, or how to research their family tree, or use digital photography, or to write creatively.

"Libraries also run information workshops presented by experts from Devon Trading Standards for example, or pension experts.

"There is so much more to our libraries than just books.

"We are providing people with better access to wide range of information, and to skills without them needing to lead to formal qualifications.

"This is giving many older people the knowledge and confidence to try new things and to develop their own learning.

“We’re very pleased to be hosting this European visit, and are looking forward to sharing what we have to offer.”