Southend Libraries

02/09/2026

The next Death Cafe at Westcliff Library will be held on Thursday 10th September, 11am-12.30pm.

Come along to this friendly discussion group if you would like a place to share your experiences. 💙 All welcome - no need to book.

01/09/2026

Call for Artists! 📣📣📣
Applications are invited to exhibit in The People's Gallery at The Forum - a purpose-built exhibition space in the centre of our city - for our exciting 2027 schedule.
Visit: https://southend.spydus.co.uk for full details and a link to the online application form.
Deadline for applications: Wednesday 30th September 2026
First time exhibitors are particularly welcome to apply.

01/09/2026

They say things come in threes... with the return to school and the return to cooler temperatures, comes the return of Storyrhymes! These joyful sessions for children under 5 and their parents/carers resume next week! Please note the booking day for your preferred location. ✨🎶✨

We're looking forward to welcoming families back to Storyrhymes next week. Please see booking details in the poster below. Southend Libraries

01/09/2026

Join local artist and author Dr. Chinmayi Nath for an inspiring workshop exploring the unique, rare and captivating art style from India - natural palm-leaf etching.
This interactive session based upon her new book, ‘Expressing & Experimenting with Palm Leaf Art’ will comprise a talk and workshop where you will create your own intricately etched palm-leaf bookmark to take home.
Suitable for ages 14+. Tickets are £10, payable on the door.
Advance booking is essential - visit or call The Forum Reception (01702 534111) to reserve your place.

31/08/2026

If you enjoy a game of , come along to Leigh Library on the following dates in September when the Leigh Chess Mates will convene.

Saturday 12th September, 11am - 1pm
Saturday 26th September, 11am - 1pm

Sessions are suitable for all adults and children aged 5+. Boards provided! 🥰

31/08/2026

Our venues may be closed today, but our digital library is not!
Discover our BorrowBox collection, offering hundreds of new and recent publications across all genres, in eAudio and eBook formats.
To get started, head to: https://southend.spydus.co.uk and follow the link to BorrowBox. 🥰

30/08/2026

Have Your Say on the Future of Southchurch Library

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking the views of residents, library users, local organisations and stakeholders on the future location of Southchurch Library, which serves the Southend Central East area.

Southchurch Library is a valued community resource, providing access to books, information, digital services, learning opportunities and community activities. It also offers a welcoming civic space for residents to connect, learn and access support. We want to ensure these services remain accessible, sustainable and fit for the future.

Whilst options have been explored, no decision has been made about the future location of the library. This consultation is your opportunity to tell us what matters most to you and help inform the Council's decision-making process.

Physical copies of the survey are available at Southchurch Library and drop-in events supporting the consultation will also be held. The consultation will run until Sunday 4th October.

Visit the online survey at: https://tinyurl.com/52uhs4uy

29/08/2026

Customer Notice
All Southend Library venues will be closed for the Summer Bank Holiday on Monday 31st August.
Our digital collections are always available, please visit: https://southend.spydus.co.uk for links to BorrowBox for eAudiobooks and eBooks, and PressReader for eNewspapers and eMagazines.

29/08/2026

The next 'Slow Down and Stitch' session will be held this Wednesday, 2nd September, at Westcliff Library.
This lovely relaxing session is for stitchers to progress their projects - please bring your materials with you. All welcome!

28/08/2026

Tomorrow the Leigh Library Chess Mates will meet from 11am - 1pm, why don't you join them? 🤔
Sessions are FREE, suitable for all adults and children aged 5+!

Saturday 29th August, 11am-1pm at Leigh Library