THE Black Country Libraries' annual Big Book Fortnight continues until Friday May 23.

The event, which kicked off on May 10, has been organised by Black Country Libraries in Partnership (BCLiP) and aims to encourage more people to take up reading and make the most of their nearest library.

A host of events have already taken place at libraries across the Dudley borough, but the initiative continues tomorrow (Wednesday May 21) at Dudley Library - where poet Brenda Read-Brown will do instant poetry to coincide with Adult Learners' Day.

The event runs from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

The fortnight's activities draw to a close when professional storyteller Peter Chand presents Punjab meets the Midlands' at Brierley Hill Library on Thursday May 22 from 2.30 to 3.30pm.

Tickets are available from Brierley Hill Library.

Linda Sanders, director of adult, community and housing services, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for local people to meet some of this country's best loved authors."

All events have been organised as part of National Year of Reading 2008.

To find out more go to www.dudley.gov.uk/reading Continuing with the reading theme - National Share a Story Month draws to a close on Tuesday May 27 and will see librarians sharing traditional tales at the Black Country Living Museum in the old school room from 10am to 12noon and 2pm to 4pm and at Wordsley's Red House Glass Cone, Camp Hill, from 2pm to 4pm.