Dr. Nancy Stevenson - Author Event

The next in our Southend Libraries Presents series of events: local author Dr. Nancy Stevenson.

In this fascinating talk Nancy will draw from her book 'Beach Hut People', taking us on a journey to learn more about the people who inhabit these ‘sheds by the sea’.
Sharing stories collected in beach huts, Nancy will tell us about the friendly and welcoming community who have given her a sense of what it is to be a ‘beach-hutter’.

Friday 17th May, 2pm - 3.30pm at The Forum

This event includes a talk and Q+A session.

Tickets are FREE and must be booked in advance at:
southendlibraries.eventbrite.com

Syd Moore - Author Event

Southend Libraries is pleased to welcome acclaimed Essex author Syd Moore to the Forum to discuss her new book ‘The Grand Illusion’.

Many of us are aware of the Nazi’s obsession with the occult, though few may know what the British did to exploit a perceived weakness in the German chain of command. Join Syd as she discusses the background to her fascinating novel and her research of this strange chapter in history.

Monday 3rd June, 12pm - 1.30pm at The Forum

Please note tickets for this FREE event will be available from Monday 13th May at The Forum reception desk and online at: southendlibraries.eventbrite.com

John Lee - Author Event

Southend Libraries is pleased to present local author John Lee.

John’s book ‘A Grateful Nation Soon Forgot’ tells of the role Southend Pier played in the 2nd world war; full of facts and anecdotes, John has many a story to share and encourages the audience to share theirs too.

This promises to be a moving and lively FREE event.

Thursday 6th June, 4pm - 5.30pm at The Forum

Please note tickets will become available on Monday 13th May, from The Forum reception desk and online at: southendlibraries.eventbrite.com

Get connected with Free Mobile Data

The Forum is a distribution point for FREE mobile data for those who may be struggling to get online.

If you or someone you know is experiencing digital exclusion and would benefit from this service, please visit The Forum on Wednesday or Thursday from 3pm - 5pm and simply ask a member of staff.

Click 'Find out more' for further details of this National Databank scheme.

A Call for Volunteers

Would you like to help the next generation cultivate a love of reading? Volunteer for this year's Summer Reading Challenge!

Southend Libraries are looking for volunteers of all ages (above 14 years) to help keep children reading over the summer holidays and combat the 'summer dip' in literacy.

This is a great opportunity to meet new people and share your love of reading.

Application forms are available in our library venues, or by email request: librarydevelopment@southend.gov.uk

Applications close 15th June.

Please apply early to secure your library of choice.

New Digital Support Sessions

Are you making the most of your IT devices? Are there features you would like to explore, but don't know how?

From this month, Southend Libraries will be offering one-to-one Digital Support Sessions for all - whatever your query, whatever your device.

IT assistance tailored to your requirements will be provided by our friendly Digital Officer team, in informal 30 minute slots. 

Simply ask for an appointment at your local branch and remember to bring your device with you on the day!

If you would like further information, please email: digitalofficers@southend.gov.uk

Summer Fayre

Due to the success of last year’s Winter Gift Fayre we now invite interest from a diversity of creative vendors to participate in our forthcoming Summer Fayre!

We will be celebrating the start of the Summer Reading Challenge on Saturday 20th July - what better day for a Summer Fayre?

Stallholders offering crafts, food, artisan goods, toys, jewellery and games will fill The Forum and Elmer Square from 10am - 2.30pm for this fun day - if you would like to be among them, please email: joepassingham@southend.gov.uk

Semblance of Order:
Rebecca Coleman & Nicola Osborne

A joint exhibition by two talented local artists comes to The People's Gallery in May.

Revolving around both artists' love of colour, shape and line, this display presents distinctly disparate approaches to art-making. Rebecca plans, orders and designs her creations meticulously, while Nicola relies upon intuition, permitting accidental mark-marking to guide each work's progress.

Drop-by The Forum from tomorrow to view this vivid and invigorating exhibition - works will be available to purchase.

Books of the Month

Two brilliant new additions to our Borrowbox eAudio collection form May's 'Books of the Month'. We have unlimited copies of both titles throughout the month - so you can download today without delay!

'Death of a Gossip' by M.C. Beaton is the first in the hugely popular Hamish Macbeth Murder Mystery Series. First published in 1985 this is a classic in the Cosy Crime Fiction genre.

'Western Lane' by Chetna Maroo is an acclaimed coming of age debut novel exploring grief, sisterhood and self. Described as 'tender, poignant, and agile, Western Lane was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2023.