Magical Library Memories: Story Building with Newham Families

As part of Discover Children’s Story Centre’s mission to capture the magic of Newham Libraries, we were keen to not only delve into their history but to hear from the communities who use the spaces today.

All of our findings from this project will ultimately feed into a brand-new interactive storytelling performance for families during Newham Heritage Month in June 2024 — celebrating the magic of our libraries and the generations of Newham residents who enjoy them then, now and in years to come.

So, as the main audience for our final performance, one of the key communities we hoped to engage in our research were families living in Newham.

Our project focuses on four libraries in particular (one from each quadrant of Newham): Plaistow, Custom House, East Ham and Forest Gate. In April 2024, we held a family event in each branch using Discover’s highly interactive Story Building methodology to share, build and collect memories and feelings around libraries, as well as exploring some of the history we’ve uncovered so far.

Discover Story Builders Paula and Julia utilised original characters Chief Librarian Long Arm (inspired by Alfred Cotgreave, Library Fittings Inventor and Newham Chief Librarian in the 1900s) and Library Assistant Maria (inspired by the many warm and kind-hearted librarians we met across Newham) to take children on an adventure to find the missing Book of Newham Libraries.

On their imaginary journey, they visited different libraries around Newham. All the while, talking about their favourite books, clubs, and corners in the libraries and the favourite people they like to go to libraries with. Some even went underwater to meet with different sea creatures and animals during their quest to find the book.

Finally, families were invited to design their own cover of The Book of Newham Libraries. A selection of their vibrant designs can be found below.