Newham Libraries Today: Books and Beyond

As part of Discover Children’s Story Centre’s mission to capture the magic of Newham Libraries, past and present, one of our primary tasks was to pay a special visit to the libraries themselves and view them within the new light of our project.

We are focusing on four libraries in particular (one from each quadrant of Newham): Plaistow, Custom House, East Ham and Forest Gate. In February 2024, we visited each to enjoy the spaces and chat to staff.

One thing became immediately clear: Newham Libraries are about far more than traditional book loan services.

Freedom to access diverse information and stories creates a welcoming environment for residents to feel safe and included. Safe and inclusive spaces allow people to connect, to share interests and commonalities, and to build communities.

This was evident across all ages and backgrounds in all four libraries — with books, classes, groups and activities to provide for a range of interests. Including but not limited to:

• Coffee mornings, knit and natter and friendship groups
• Storytelling, sing-along and sensory play for children
• Arts and crafts
• Tai chi, yoga, dance and keep-fit classes
• Lego, chess and board game clubs
• Digital skills classes, coding clubs and movie clubs
• Refugee, LGBTQ+ and other targeted groups

Not to mention, library staff who all noted that making a difference to the unique individuals in their communities is the highlight of what they do.

Inspired by our first visits, we also joined one of Newham Libraries much-loved coffee mornings in April 2024 to hear more from the local community memories who flourish and find comfort in our local library spaces.

Below is a collection of photos, quotes and video clips from our visits in February and April.

Books and reading

Community, Activities and Services

Bringing Residents Together

Members of Custom House Library Coffee Morning talking in April 2024 about their links to Newham and the importance of library activities in connecting with others and maintaining their wellbeing.

Library Staff: An Extended Family

Library Supervisor talking in April 2024 about Refugee Day and other initiatives that allow libraries to reach their surrounding communities — and what that means to her.