STIRLING Council Libraries’ annual book festival Off the Page is underway with another rich, wide-ranging programme.

This popular event, which is in its 13th year, runs until Saturday, May 19 and brings an array of writing talent to libraries throughout the Stirling Council area. 

On Wednesday, May 16 nature writer, journalist and poet Jim Crumley takes his work to Callander Library, while local writer Alex Nye is in Killin. 

The Off the Page Writers’ Showcase at the Golden Lion on Thursday evening is a chance to hear local writers perform, with Makar Clive Wright and Laura Fyfe of Figment Creative hosting, and music from singer and guitarist Bill Adair.

Friday evening sees new Scottish noir voice Alan Parks present his debut Bloody January at Central Library.

This is the first book in a dark and exciting series set in Glasgow, 1973. 

Alternatively, Cambusbarron Library are hosting a BYOB (bring your own book) book group event on Friday evening to celebrate the love of reading, with all welcome.

An inspiring programme at The Smith Museum includes Enchantment of The Trossachs writer Louis Stott on Saturday, May 19, and fans of history can also enjoy a tour of The Engine Shed that day.

The celebrated Digiknow roadshow will be at Bridge of Allan all day on Thursday, May 17.

This is your chance to get hands on with Osmos, Makey-Makeys and the HP Sprout digital creation station.

Try a spot of coding, have a play with our friendly robots and book in to the 3D printing workshop while you can.

There are plenty of events for children during the week, including a chance to make your own journal after school in Doune and Balfron with help from Stirling Archives.

Bestselling children’s author Steve Cole, creator of captivating series Astrosaurs and writer of the Young James Bond, is famous for his entertaining shows and has promised to bring his ukulele to the Tolbooth on Saturday, May 19. 

Off the Page coincides with Bookbug week this year and many libraries will be hosting special Bookbug events with fun story, song and rhyme activities. 

With events in all parts of the community, Off the Page really has something for everyone.

Programmes are available from libraries, Customer First, the Thistle Centre, Tolbooth, Albert Halls and Smith Museum, with tickets bookable now in libraries, Tolbooth and Albert Halls.

Event details can also be found online.