A PROJECT that will see mini libraries 'pop up' in various locations in Rhyl will launch next week.

The novel scheme, that will see hand designed boxes full of books in four locations, launches on World Book Night on Tuesday, April 23.

Little libraries aims to encourage people to read, share and swap books in different locations throughout Rhyl.

Each box, built by Rhyl’s Men’s Shed, will hold a number of books aimed at all ages and abilities.

Cllr Win Mullen-James, mayor of Rhyl, said: “The idea behind the library boxes project is really very simple - we want to give people the chance to take pleasure in a book, give families the opportunity to read together, and encourage people to share and talk about stories which they have found enjoyable.

"This is very much an extension of the town’s successful library and sees us working together to reach out to the community, help boost literacy and instil in people the somewhat old-fashioned joy of picking up a book for free."

The project, believe to be the first of its kind in North Wales, has been funded by Rhyl Town Council.

Rhyl Library, who have come on board with the project, has secured 160 copies of Nick Hornby’s new book, Juliet, Naked, a story of second chances, which is aimed at adults.

A number of children’s books have also been donated and will be included in the boxes.

Rhyl’s librarian Deborah Owen said: “The idea of people stumbling across a book in unusual places really appealed to us. Finding the little libraries and the books will be as much a part of the joy as reading them."

The design for the mini library boxes was carried out by the St Mary’s Art Group at 4 The Community on Wellington Road.

The boxes can be found at White Rose Centre, Rhyl Town Council offices on Wellington Road, Rhyl Tourist Information Centre on West Parade and Rhyl Library on Church Street.

Through the project, Men's Shed members developed their woodwork skills. The art club helped to make the boxes, created in traditional seaside colours, stand out.