The City of Newcastle is gearing up for an exciting lineup of community events, highlighted by a major book sale at the Newcastle Library and a vibrant summer concert series. During the recent Newcastle Arts Council meeting, members emphasized the importance of community engagement and support for local initiatives.

The Friends of the Newcastle Library announced their upcoming big book sale, set for the last week of March. This event will feature a members-only sale on Thursday, followed by public access on Friday and Saturday. The proceeds from the sale are crucial, as they fund various free programs offered by the library. New members are encouraged to join to gain early access to the sale.

In addition to the book sale, the Arts Council is organizing an art supply and garage sale on May 10, coinciding with other community activities. This event aims to raise funds for the Newcastle Arts Council, with a call for donations of art supplies.

The meeting also covered plans for the summer concert series, with a focus on diversifying the musical lineup. Bands such as Boogie Boulevard and Pioneer Squares have already been booked, and organizers are exploring genres like salsa and Afro-Cuban jazz to attract a wider audience. The council is also considering pre-concert activities to enhance the community experience.

Sponsorship opportunities for these events are being expanded, with a push for local businesses to get involved. The council is actively seeking suggestions for potential sponsors and is working on marketing materials to promote these opportunities.

As Newcastle prepares for these events, community involvement remains a key theme, with the Arts Council encouraging residents to participate and support local initiatives that enrich the cultural fabric of the city.