 Happy Christmas from everyone at
Staffordshire Library and Arts Service
 There is always a warm welcome at Staffordshire Libraries
Did you know Staffordshire Libraries provide safe, warm, and welcoming spaces with access to lots of great services, such as FREE books and electronic resources. With a Staffordshire library card, you can download eBooks, eAudio books, eMagazines, eComics, and eNewspapers on the go!
At Staffordshire Libraries you have access to Wi-Fi and desktop computers and can use a range of subscriptions such as Ancestry, Driving Theory Test Pro, Britannica and Go Citizen and much more, FREE across our 43 libraries.
Staffordshire library staff and volunteers can signpost you to information and services in your local area - getting you the help and support you may need. Many of our libraries can help with online applications for Bus Passes and Blue Badges, and our Business Start-Up Hubs can provide anyone looking to start a business with information to get them on the right path.
Looking for something to do? We have a huge range of activities and events from Baby Bounce and Rhyme time for little ones, Coffee and Chat sessions, Local History activities, Craft sessions plus lots more. So, what are you waiting for! Why not Discover Your Staffordshire Library Today! And Join Up. Join In. Discover. Explore. Create.
Libraries have lot of regular events and activities and special events run all year - find out what's on near you here
Find out more about Your Staffordshire Library Service here: How to join your library - Staffordshire County Council
Or on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube – search Staffordshire Libraries and follow us for updates.
 Looking for a good read this Christmas!?
Our Library shelves are bursting with seasonal books this December and we’ve added even more eBooks & eAudios to Borrowbox.
We’ve got crime, romance, classics history & traditions, cooking & plenty for the kids too!
Please visit Borrowbox via the App on your smart phone or tablet, or our eLibrary or pop into your local library and choose from a huge selection of seasonal titles!
 Join us in the ‘Light up the longest night’ campaign across Staffordshire this Christmas and New Year!
On Saturday 21st December, the longest night of the year, we are inviting people and organisations to light up their windows and buildings green to show support for those in need. The County Council are pleased to be working in partnership with the Samaritans again to promote the message that they are always there to listen 24/7, 365 days a year.
This year we are encouraging people to share photos of their windows, lit up green, on social media using the hashtag #LightUpTheNight and to spread positive stories of how they have been helped or have helped someone in their time of need.
A limited number of posters and tealights are available in all Staffordshire libraries from Monday 2nd December.
Staffordshire County Council buildings, including Shire Hall in Stafford, and businesses including Wincanton Screwfix Distribution Centre will be illuminated green, and we are encouraging other organisations to join in.
Let’s come together to show that no one has to face their struggles alone. For more information and downloadable resources, visit the light up the longest night webpage
Remember, If you need to talk, please contact Samaritans anytime for free on 116 123.
 Have you tried Borrowbox yet?
Enjoy these great eAudios and eBooks on Borrowbox for a limited time only with no queue!
These titles are all available from 1st December until 28th January so grab them while you can!
Just download the Borrowbox App from your app store for your device or visit our eLibrary
 Cannock Library Christmas Fayre
Join us on Saturday 21st December 10am - 3pm
There will be plenty of things for you to do including:
- Stalls
- Tombola
- All day children's crafts
- FREE refreshments
As well as a Children's Christmas Story Time from 11am - 3pm
For anybody interested in holding a stall at our fayre, please contact us on:
Tel: 01543 334525
Email: cannock.library@staffordshire.gov.uk
 Spotlight on Wilnecote Community Library
Powered by Volunteers, Enriching Our Community
Come and experience the difference our volunteers make!
The Wilnecote Community Library is a hidden gem, offering more than just books—it's a place where the heart of the community truly shines. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, this vibrant space is a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of accessible, inclusive services for all ages. Our passionate volunteers are the heart and soul of the library, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and welcoming space for everyone.
Whether you’re a lifelong book lover, a student looking for resources, or a family seeking a fun and educational trip out, The Wilnecote Library has something for everyone. From its wide selection of books, audiobooks, jigsaws and revision resources AND a monthly social reading group, there’s always something happening. The library’s friendly volunteers are on hand to offer guidance and recommendations, and their passion for reading and learning is infectious.
A Community Hub for All Ages
The library’s commitment to being more than just a place to borrow books is evident. The warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere is just the start. Large meeting style tables allow you to catch up with some work, and the comfy chairs give you the opportunity to sit back and read a little. Need to use a PC or print some work off? No problem – the full colour printer/photocopier is available at a pence per sheet charge and we have a bank of PC’s that are bookable for your use. Fancy a cuppa – just ask! Donations to the refreshment pot are always welcome to keep stocks replenished.
Volunteers: The Heartbeat of the Library
As a volunteer-led library, the success of Wilnecote Library depends on the incredible dedication of its team of volunteers. These local heroes help with everything from shelving books, assisting with research, recommending a new read and of course, keeping the library a welcoming space for all.
“Our volunteers are absolutely integral to everything we do,” says Julie Glover, the Library Coordinator. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to provide the range of services that we do. They truly bring the library to life, and we are so grateful for their commitment and enthusiasm.”
Visit Us Today!
The Wilnecote Community Library is open to all, and we encourage you to come by and discover all that this volunteer-led space has to offer. Whether you're browsing the latest bestsellers, catching up on research, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea and a good book, you’ll find a warm welcome every time.
We are located within The Wilnecote School, Tinkers Green Road, Wilnecote, B77 5LF. We offer FREE parking and are on the Arriva Number 8 Tamworth bus route. Our opening hours currently are:
Monday – 3pm - 5.30pm
Wednesday – 9am – 12 noon and 3pm – 5.30pm
Saturday – 10am – 1pm
Our social book group meets on the last Friday of each month at 3pm.
Join us at The Wilnecote Library—where community, creativity, and a love of reading and learning come together. Volunteers keep the wheels turning, but it is the library users that make it all worthwhile.
Contact Wilnecote Community Library at 01827 782121 or wilnecote.library@staffordshire.gov.uk
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Never mind that Christmas list, have you entered our Poetry Competition yet?
Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate Harry Fletcher is inviting budding young poets age 8-16 to submit a poem on the theme of 'Winter is Calling' for a chance to win a book voucher just in time for Christmas!
Winners will also have the chance to attend a poetry workshop in the new year with lots of useful hints & tips on developing their poetry skills. (optional).
Poems must fit on 1 side of A4, (30 lines max), typed if possible & sent to connectedlibraries@staffordshire.gov.uk
If easier for you, you could always handwrite it and pop it in to your local Staffordshire library, but please note, we can't give them back, so please remember to make a copy!
Don’t forget to include your name, age & contact details!
Enter by Friday 13th December - Good Luck!
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Family Leaning Festival Events
As part of Staffordshire History Festival and the national Family Learning Festival Libraries, Community Learning and the Family Hubs teamed up to offer a range of events.
There were six events at three Staffordshire Library venues (Perton, Biddulph and Uttoxeter) with around 80 adults and children participating from 30 families. There were also 11 staff from Community Learning and Family Hub teams, 2 financial support family hub coaches, 3 partners and staff, 3 young helpers, 2 volunteers, 2 tortoises, lots of fun, games, competition entries and 1 competition winner who receives a family ticket to Sudbury Children’s County House!
What did they get up to?
- Played with 1970/80s style toys such as Rubik's cube and Lego
- Counted darts scores, and bowling skittles
- Learnt to play chess
- Created spirograph pictures, and pointillism-style Black history month themed pictures
- Made hay wreaths and healthy fruit kebabs
- Learnt facts about the tortoises’ long lives
- Made traditional lavender bags
Everyone could also find out about the opportunities for family learning, including everyday maths – for more information see Community Learning's online directory.
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 Spotlight on Great Wyrley Community Library
Great Wyrley Community Library volunteer Paul has written a lovely article that we're happy to share with you about 'Sam' the library mascot!
Sam’s First Christmas, by Paul
Sam, you might want to know, is the unofficial mascot of Great Wyrley Community Library. We are based at the heart of a thriving community and take part in different events organised for and by local people.
One of the annual highlights is a Scarecrow parade which, this year, was held over the weekend of May 11th on the theme of “Musicals”. Keen to contribute we library volunteers chose “Beauty and the Beast” and Belle the scarecrow was created. She stood at the door of the library and welcomed in young readers who admired displays and books about the fairy tale and also took home quizzes and colouring sheets.
As things will turn out in the best of fairy tales, Belle was a heroine who became so popular with the younger members of our community that a decision was made to prolong her association with the library and she was adopted as our mascot.
Belle has metamorphosised several times, along the way changing her name to a less gender specific Sam and serving as our Summer Reading Challenge promoter, a Hallowe’en bride and a “Lest we Forget “ poppy wearer.
Now, as Christmas approaches, Sam is likely to transform once again. In the afternoon of December 14th volunteers will open the library for the Community Christmas Trail. Our Christmas Post Box will be available for posting letters to Santa, there will be a sale of books kindly donated by library members and rumour has it that the Big Man himself may drop in to distribute presents and good cheer.
In this and other ways, we hope to keep the spirit of Christmas alive, continue to play our part in the local community and to represent the library as one of the best ways to share the joys of reading and the finding of information.
And Sam ?
Well, Christmas is yet another completely new experience for our mascot this year and of course it’s terribly exciting !
Why not pop into Great Wyrley Community Library and meet Sam!
Great Wyrley Library, Quinton Court
Wardles Lane, Great Wyrley, WS6 6DY
01922 414632
greatwyrley.library@staffordshire.gov.uk
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 You can now access YOUR Staffordshire Library account on the go with our new library app! From renewals & reservations, to searching the catalogue we have just the app for that!
Why not Discover Your Library today!
Available for iOS and Android via the app and google play store
Free Period Products available from Libraries
Packs of pads, tampons and liners are now available for free for those who cannot access/afford them at:
• Stafford Library
• Cannock Library
• Burton Library
• Newcastle Library
• Kidsgrove Library
In a bid to help people who are struggling with affording period products. Visit Your nearest library - Staffordshire County Council for addresses and opening times.
If you need period products for you or your family, please feel free to take what you need.
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 What is the Winter Mini Challenge?
A great confidence booster! The Winter Mini Challenge is a fun online challenge that encourages children to keep up their reading across the Winter months. This year the Winter Mini Challenge runs from 1st December - 20th February.
It’s free to take part on wintermini.org.uk, where children can collect rewards for logging and reviewing books. Whatever your interest, it all counts.
Taking part is simple. Children read at least three books of their choice in the winter holidays and add them to their online profile. Reaching their online reading goal will unlock a limited-edition virtual badge and a special Winter Mini Challenge certificate to print off and keep.
Our Libraries are filled with seasonal and other books for children to borrow over the Christmas holidays and we have lots of great eBooks and eAudios available on the Borrowbox App or via our eLibrary.
Tackle the holiday reading ‘dip’ and join in online
 Grief Awareness Week 2nd - 8th December
Co-ordinated by The Good Grief Trust, Grief Awareness Week is an annual public campaign to raise awareness of the awareness of grief and get the public talking. This year The Good Grief Trust would like communities to come together to raise awareness of the support available to bereaved people.
Libraries provide a safe and trusted space in local communities to start to guide supportive conversations about death, dying and loss and crucially signpost to the most appropriate bereavement support.
Your local library can signpost you to support groups, social activity, courses and opportunities to enhance skills or learning, information and book collections that can help you.
To find out more visit The Good Grief Trust Website or pop into your local library.
Explore the Reading Agency's Grief and Bereavement Book Guide, available to borrow or request from your library.
A Poem for Grief Awareness Week
Grief
A clammy coldness seems to linger in your
heart. Reminiscing in the pulsates of memories,
which make you drift apart. There is no right
way for you to feel or think or do, suppose it had
a colour, perhaps it would be blue- for tears,
which glide down your face, whilst you’re ambling
around at your own pace. But whilst it all seems
biting as bitter as the night, you forget that you
can prosper in the light- to shine all your sorrow,
and to absorb sorrow’s rays, so that, you can
search those memories to live for happier days.
Harry Fletcher
Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate
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Explore Christmases past with with BFI Replay
BFI Replay is a free service that takes thousands of digitised video and television programmes from the BFI National Archive and partner UK Regions and Nations Film Archives and makes them available for free, exclusively at your local library.
Available exclusively in all Staffordshire libraries, visit us today and delve into the recorded past for fun, discovery, nostalgia or research.
Just follow the desktop icon on our public PCs.
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 Cannock Library Local Studies Open Day
Explore past Cannock & the surrounding area through our collection of:
- Old photographs
- Newspapers
- Maps
Wednesday 11th December
10-12pm
Free, just drop-in.
For more information please call 01543 334525 or email cannock.library@staffordshire.gov.uk
 Christmas is a time for family ... history research!
Discover your family story this Christmas with Ancestry and FindMyPast!
Ancestry is the leading genealogy resource on the internet and is packed full of records, as well as hints and tips to help you trace your family history, whether you are from Staffordshire or beyond.
Findmypast is one of the leading family history resources on the internet. The Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Archive Service has partnered with Findmypast to make some of the most popular Staffordshire sources available online. Currently available are the Staffordshire Parish Registers (Church of England), 1538-1900, containing around 4 million records. Further resources are 'in the pipeline' and will be made available soon, so watch this space.
Both are available to use for FREE for Library members on a public access PC at your local Staffordshire Library.
New to Ancestry? We have created a guide that you can download here
Some libraries offer Ancestry taster sessions with a staff member or volunteer - just ask next time you are in and we can get you started.
Think 2
All the small things a child learns in their earliest years can make a big difference later.
Funded early learning childcare sessions at a nursery, preschool or a childminder can help a child:
- make friends and have fun
- develop routines
- grow their language and communications skills
Some families may be eligible for up to 15 hours of funded childcare sessions if they are in receipt of certain benefits.
In Staffordshire this is called Think 2. To see a list of
benefits and how to apply, go to: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Think2
If families can’t get online or need help to apply, they can visit a Staffordshire library, children’s centre, childminder, preschool, or nursery who will help them apply.
They can also call the Early Education and Childcare team on: 0300 111 8007
email: eeac@staffordshire.gov.uk
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