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Media students organise and host gig in library

Jon Wright & Angelle Joseph
BBC News, Suffolk
Angelle Joseph/BBC Bass, drums, guitar and vocals for a four piece band standing behind a library information counterAngelle Joseph/BBC
Suffolk band AfterDrive, who have been featured on BBC Radio 1 and Radio X, recorded their set at Ipswich County Library

Media students have put their skills into practice by organising and hosting a gig at a local library.

The Book Clurb will be a live event for an invited audience at Ipswich County Library on 5 February, and streamed by Suffolk New College (SNC) from 19:00 to 20:00 GMT.

This year's gig - in which students will take on roles such as live hosting, camera operators, publicity, production and planning - marks the 20th anniversary of the first SNC live event.

Carrisa Hawkins, a student who will be presenting the show, said: "It's about understanding that there's more to libraries, but also showing students what jobs they could be doing in the media."

Eli Turay/SNC Carrisa Hawkins smiles at the camera, she is wearing a dark coloured top with a gold chain. She has a nose piercing and wearing a brown and white headband in her hair. Eli Turay/SNC
Student Carrisa Hawkins is one of the presenters for the live event

SNC student Keeley Lilley, who is one of the show's producers, said there was "a lot of paperwork" involved.

"Creating schedules, making sure everyone's on track, a lot of running about, it's chaotic but fun.

"Seeing it all come together at the end, honestly makes me so proud," she said.

Eli Turay/SNC An illuminated sign that says The Book Clurb in back text on a white rectangle background.Eli Turay/SNC
The name of the show, The Book Clurb, was coined by the students

Francesca Rose, a tutor at SNC, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for students to put into practice all of the skills they have learnt in a live situation.

"Each student gets to focus on an area they are most interested in and work with external bands and guests.

"The excitement and pride they feel after the event is amazing."

Suffolk New College A TV set with lights and cameras pointed to a stage. On stage is a neon sign that reads "The Book Clurb". There is three people stood behind the cameras. Suffolk New College
The event will see students take on roles such as live hosting, camera operators, publicity, production and planning

The idea to host music events at the library was brought forward by theatre specialist Kirsty Tallent, who was the storyteller in residence for Suffolk Libraries last year.

It is now being managed by Sally Garwood, a former SNC student.

Ms Garwood said: "I took part in producing the live TV event module when I was on this exact course at Suffolk New College between 2011 and 2013, so I was delighted when the course tutor approached me in my role at the library looking for a venue.

"It's a project that feels close to my heart and like it has come full circle!"

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