THE Bournemouth Daily Echo will be joining forces with libraries in Bournemouth and Christchurch exploring the role news plays in society.

Later this month, more than 30 public libraries across the UK will launch pop-up displays exploring 500 years of news, inspired by a major British Library exhibition ‘Breaking the News’ which is supported by Newsworks.

With many drawing on individual collections and regional connections, the libraries’ pop-ups will explore what makes an event news, press freedom, issues of trust, as well as a selection of news stories spanning 500 years of news production in Britain.

Delivered through the British Library’s Living Knowledge Network, the major ‘Breaking the News’ exhibition will be open at the British Library in London from April 22 to August 21.

Newsworks CEO Jo Allan said: “These localised exhibitions will celebrate 500 years of news by showcasing some of the most important local stories while examining the value of news, free speech and the ongoing importance of local journalism to their communities.

“This network of activity across local libraries is a brilliant initiative and will be a great way to lead into the launch of the British Library’s “Breaking the News” exhibition in April, which we are delighted to be supporting.”

News Media Association chief executive Owen Meredith said: “Journalism plays a critical role in our democratic society, and I hope that these exhibitions will really bring that to life for communities across the UK.

“Local libraries and local news media titles are both highly trusted institutions within local life and, by working in partnership for these exhibitions and beyond, they can deliver even more value for the public.”

In Dorset, the Breaking the News exhibition opens at Christchurch Library on February 25 until May 20, and will then go on to Bournemouth Library until August 21.

A launch event will take place at the library.