Essex Library Service

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Essex Library Service 74 libraries and 3 mobile libraries serving you throughout Essex. Encouraging reading for pleasure, information and learning. Free online resources.

Thousands of events. Extensive programme of library refurbishments. Like our page to get regular updates from Essex Libraries. You'll find out about what's new, some great reading ideas and events happening across the county. Share them with your friends and family. Other ways you can talk to us:

Webchat: https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/contact-essex-library-service/webchat/

Enquiry Form: https://essex-self.achieveservice.com/service/Library_questions_and_feedback

Twitter: http://goo.gl/xW4x7g

YouTube: http://goo.gl/hrRdvb

Two weeks ago, Saffron Walden Library became a Fun Palace for the day. 883 people came through the door and were treated...
17/10/2026

Two weeks ago, Saffron Walden Library became a Fun Palace for the day. 883 people came through the door and were treated to a community-led and wonder-filled day!

There was a host of treats on offer, including

- Rock 'n' roll massage for babies and toddlers
- Therapy dog
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) for children
- Recycling activity
- Art workshop
- Block building
- Big Dig (Excavation sand pit)

Were you there? Let us know what you thought in the comments.
- Dancing

Greenstead Library Rhymetime 🎵While Greenstead Library is in its temporary location, our Rhymetime sessions will take pl...
17/10/2026

Greenstead Library Rhymetime 🎵

While Greenstead Library is in its temporary location, our Rhymetime sessions will take place at Elim Church, Clematis Way, CO4 3PY, just across the car park.

Mondays, 10:00am to 10:30am

We look forward to seeing you there! 😊

Return to the deep dark wood this half term and beyond with Gruffalo Granny, the first new Gruffalo story in over 20 yea...
16/10/2026

Return to the deep dark wood this half term and beyond with Gruffalo Granny, the first new Gruffalo story in over 20 years! 🌲

Join us this half term and beyond, for special storytimes, themed activities and the chance to take home your very own copy of the book 📖

Spaces are limited and booking is essential, so don't miss out! Find your local session and book today: https://library-events.essex.gov.uk/search?q=gruffalo

With thanks to BookTrust Pan Macmillan

16/10/2026

A creative writing workshop with a difference is coming to Basildon Library!

Explore the stories of Black British ballet dancers, in a session led by Marsha Lowe, Director of the Black British Ballet project. We'll do some creative activities together before you have a go at writing your own piece.

The event is on Tuesday 27 October at 10.30am and is suitable for anyone aged 10 to adult. Please book via website: https://library-events.essex.gov.uk/event?id=379986

Drama Geezers CIC

Greenstead Library is entering an exciting new chapter, with plans that will place our Library at the heart of the commu...
16/10/2026

Greenstead Library is entering an exciting new chapter, with plans that will place our Library at the heart of the community.

During the redevelopment, Greenstead Library will remain open in its temporary location just a few steps from the existing library building; serving its customers, so you can still borrow, return and reserve books, print scan, use the free Wi-Fi .

Come and chat with our lovely staff from Monday 19 October 2026

For news and updates follow the link https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/greenstead-library-will-reopen-in-its-temporary-home-from-monday-19-october

Some books are best read aloud, whether it's a children's classic, a short story collection, or a novel you're sharing w...
15/10/2026

Some books are best read aloud, whether it's a children's classic, a short story collection, or a novel you're sharing with someone you love.

This month's challenge on the Read On app is to read aloud (or listen to someone else doing so, for example an audiobook) for 200 minutes.

How many stories can you manage?

If you haven't yet got the Read On app, download it now, and enjoy regular challenges, quizzes and book recommendations! https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/new-read-for-pleasure-app-for-essex-library-service-members

Our Word of the Month: IntermeddlerIntermeddler (noun): Someone who gets involved in other people's business when they r...
15/10/2026

Our Word of the Month: Intermeddler

Intermeddler (noun): Someone who gets involved in other people's business when they really shouldn't!

Challenge yourself: Can you use intermeddler in a sentence today?

Hands up un the comments if you know an intermeddler (no names, please... let's keep the peace! 😂)

Anyone with an Essex Library card has free access to the Oxford English Dictionary: https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-online-library .

15/10/2026

Service Update 📚

Coggeshall Library is now open and will resume normal opening hours. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by this.

15/10/2026

Service Update 📚

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Coggeshall Library will be closed today, Thursday 15th October, until further notice.

We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by this.

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Chelmsford

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