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Roxeth Library 

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Forest Hill Community Library

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Rainham Library

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Welcome To Essex Library Service

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<div class="row justify-content-center mb-3">
<h2 class="text-center py-4">A-Z of Library Services</h2>
<p class=" p-3">Here is an A-Z list of all our services&nbsp;</p>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>A</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.accesstoresearch.org.uk/" target="_blank" aria-invalid="true" rel="noopener">Access to Research</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/accessing-library-buildings" aria-invalid="true">Accessing library buildings and facilities</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses" aria-invalid="true">ACL Essex</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history" aria-invalid="true">Ancestry Library Edition</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children" aria-invalid="true">Autism friendly libraries</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>B</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/entertainment/bfi-replay" aria-invalid="true">BFI Replay</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/join-a-book-group" aria-invalid="true">Book groups</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/baby-and-toddlers" aria-invalid="true">Bookstart</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-elibrary/borrowbox" aria-invalid="true">BorrowBox</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/encyclopedias-dictionaries-and-general-reference" aria-invalid="true">Britannica Adult</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/encyclopedias-dictionaries-and-general-reference" aria-invalid="true">Britannica Junior</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/encyclopedias-dictionaries-and-general-reference" aria-invalid="true">Britannica Student</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/business" aria-invalid="true">British Library Business and IP Centre</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history" aria-invalid="true">British Newspaper Archive</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/business" aria-invalid="true">Business e-magazine - PressReader</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>C</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children">Children with learning disabilities</a></p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">Citizen Literacy</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/computers-and-wifi">Computers and Wi-Fi</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>D</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/dementia-friendly-library-service">Dementia Friendly library service</a></p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/different-ways-of-reading">Different ways of reading</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/arts-literature-and-music">Discovering Literature</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-strategies-policies-and-terms/stock-management-policy/stock-allocation-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Donations</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">Driving Theory Test Pro</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>E</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/encyclopedias-dictionaries-and-general-reference">Encyclopedia Britannica Library</a><br /><a href="https://essex-self.achieveservice.com/service/Library_questions_and_feedback">Enquiry Form</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/literacy-area">Everyone's Literacy Area</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/business">Essex County Council Business Support</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/essex-library-of-things">Essex Library of Things</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news">Essex Library Service News</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/events">Events</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>F</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/EssexLibraries">Facebook</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">Find My Past</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children"></a><br /><br /></p>
</div>
</div>
<hr />
<div class="row justify-content-center mb-3">
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>G</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">GoCitizen</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">Gov.uk - improve maths, &nbsp;English and IT</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>H</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-mobile-and-home-library-services/home-library-service">Home Library Service</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>I</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/essexlibraries/">Instagram</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">IWM Lives of the First World War</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>J</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/join-a-book-group">Join a book group</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/join-the-library">Join the library</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>K</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/entertainment/kanopy">Kanopy</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>L</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">Learn My Way</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-elibrary/libby">Libby by Overdrive</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/library-app">Library App</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-library-locations-and-opening-times">Library locations and opening times</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/library-of-sanctuary">Library of Sanctuary</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/literacy-area">Literacy Area</a><br /><a href="https://essex-gov-uk.libanswers.com/chat/widget/4ab6424935eb704332369e95060f0106">Livechat</a></p>
</div>
</div>
<hr />
<div class="row justify-content-center mb-3">
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>M</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-mobile-and-home-library-services">Mobile Library</a><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/arts-literature-and-music"></a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>N</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/arts-literature-and-music">Naxos Music Library</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/arts-literature-and-music">Nielsen BookData</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>O</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children">Online Craft Times</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/baby-and-toddlers">Online Rhymetime&nbsp;</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/baby-and-toddlers">Online Storytime</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children">Online story writing workshop</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-reading-suggestions/reading-well/reading-well-for-teens">Our Reading Suggestions</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">Oxford Dictionary of National Biography</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/encyclopedias-dictionaries-and-general-reference">Oxford English Dictionary Online</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>P</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children">Parent information</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/music-scores-and-play-sets">Performing Arts</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-strategies-policies-and-terms/facilities-charges-and-loan-charges-">Photocopying and printing charges</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-elibrary/pressreader">PressReader</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>Q</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>R</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/read-and-count-with-me-under-a-tree">Read and Count With Me Under a Tree</a><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-reading-suggestions/reading-well/reading-well-for-children/"></a></p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/health-and-wellbeing/reading-well" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reading Well</a></p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/health-and-wellbeing/reading-well/reading-well-for-children">Reading Well for Children</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/health-and-wellbeing/reading-well/reading-well-for-teens">Reading Well for Teens</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/reserve-renew-or-return-an-item">Reserve, renew or return a library item</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/room-hire">Room bookings/hire</a></p>
</div>
</div>
<hr />
<div class="row justify-content-center mb-3">
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>S</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/using-our-libraries/essex-library-social-stories/">Social stories</a></p>
<p><a href="https://essex-self.achieveservice.com/service/Request_library_items" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stock suggestions</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/children">Story of the month</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/summer-reading-challenge-2023">Summer Reading Challenge</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/young-adults">Support with homework</a></p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/young-adults/sustainability-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sustainability Challenge</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>T</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/newspapers-magazines-and-current-affairs">Times Digital Archive</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">Transparent Language</a><br /><a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fessexlibraries">Twitter</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>U</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/homework-and-education">UCAS support</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/free-courses">Universal Class</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>V</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/volunteer-at-your-local-library">Volunteering with libraries</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/vox-books-books-that-talk">Vox Books</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>W</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">Who's Who and Who was Who</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>X</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
</div>
<hr />
<div class="row justify-content-center mb-3">
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>Y</h2>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">Yoko Sato: Quick Family Tree</a></p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/our-services-for-children-and-young-adults/young-adults">Young adults with learning disabilities</a><br /><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services/reference/biographical-historical-and-family-history">Your Family Tree</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/EssexLibraries">YouTube</a></p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<h2>Z</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div class="col-xl-2 col-lg-3 col-md-4 col-sm-6 p-2">
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
</div>
<hr />

A-Z of Library Services

our-library-locations-and-opening-times

Our library locations and opening times

join-the-library

Join the library

reserve-renew-or-return-an-item

Reserve, renew or return an item

using-our-libraries

Using our libraries

our-mobile-and-home-library-services

Our mobile and home library services

using-our-elibrary

Using our e-library

entertainment-free-courses-and-reference-services

Entertainment, free courses and reference services

our-services-for-children-and-young-adults

<h1>Our services for children and young adults</h1>

Our services for children and young adults

health-and-wellbeing

Health and wellbeing

volunteer-at-your-local-library

Volunteer at your local library

book-of-the-month-april

<h1><strong>Book of the Month - April</strong></h1>
<p><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_fba2de9c-8819-4f92-93fe-ff202bcde178_638476723868441568/public" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Homecoming by Kate Morton</h2>
<div>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB">A Brand-new Book from Award-winning Author Kate Morton, Read by Emmy&nbsp; Award- Winning Actress Claire Foy.&nbsp;</p>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB"><br />Adelaide Hills, Christmas Eve, 1959. At the end of a scorching hot day, beside a creek in the grounds of a grand and mysterious house, a local deliveryman makes a terrible discovery. A police investigation is called, and the small town of Tambilla becomes embroiled in one of the most shocking and perplexing murder cases in the history of South Australia</p>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://essex.borrowbox.com/product/BOL_4612517/title/homecoming">Download now with BorrowBox</a></p>
</div>
<div>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>
<p xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p>
</div>

Book of the Month - April

our-reading-suggestions

Our Reading Suggestions

join-a-book-group

<h1>Find a book group</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>You can&nbsp;<a href="https://library-events.essex.gov.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">search for a book group near you</a>&nbsp;or ask at your&nbsp;local library&nbsp;for more details. We support over 700 groups with a great choice of reads.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Start a book group</h2>
<h3>Register your group</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>By registering your group you:</p>
<ul>
<li>are applying for a Book Group Card which gives you the option to order multiple copies of a chosen title which can be borrowed for up to three months</li>
<li>can choose to join the book group list which can be shared with other interested readers</li>
</ul>
<p>You can complete a&nbsp;<a href="https://essex-self.achieveservice.com/service/Book_group_registration" target="_top">Book Group Registration form</a>&nbsp;or go to your local library and tell them:</p>
<ul>
<li>the name of your group</li>
<li>where and when you will meet</li>
<li>what quantity and format of books you will need (we may be able to supply large print or audio books)</li>
<li>the name and contact details of the organiser</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Meet in your local library</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Talk to library staff if your group would like to use a space in your local library.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Get ideas for what to read</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>You can <a href="https://pages.news.essex.gov.uk/pages/subscribe">subscribe to the book group e-newsletter</a>&nbsp;for reading ideas and to keep up to date with other book groups in Essex.</p>
<p>You can request titles for your reading group using the&nbsp;<a href="https://essex-self.achieveservice.com/service/Book_group_reading_choices" target="_top">Book Group Reading Choices form</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Record of books on loan</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>We recommend you keep a log of which member has which copy of the books your group has on loan (using the barcode inside the book that starts 30130...).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Get ideas for book club questions</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>There are plenty of book club questions available at the back of books themselves, or online.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Share your book reviews</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>You can share your individual or group reviews with us by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:reading.groups@essex.gov.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reading.groups@essex.gov.uk</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Online Book Groups</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for ways to continue your book group activities or are interested in setting up a new virtual group, these websites can help:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://readinggroups.org/news/keeping-your-reading-group-active-while-social-distancing">The Reading Agency</a>&nbsp;- keeping your reading group active while social distancing</li>
<li><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4d2tfP38MXzZ8bgM7KZ4Wyb/novel-connections-how-to-set-up-your-own-online-book-group">BBC Arts: Novel Connections</a>&nbsp;- How to set up your own online book group</li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/">Goodreads</a>&nbsp;- decide what to read next and see which books are being discussed</li>
<li><a href="https://www.bustle.com/p/10-tips-for-hosting-a-digital-book-club-47362">Bustle</a>&nbsp;- tips for hosting a digital book club</li>
</ul>
<p>Watch one of our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZoh2Z5XUn-gxpMiMYWaS51AGDhP3MUad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">book group videos on YouTube</a>&nbsp;for more tips and ideas.&nbsp;</p>

Join a book group

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changes-at-harwich-library

<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Harwich Library is set to undergo significant changes as part of a multi-million pound revamp for Dovercourt. &nbsp;The project is being delivered by Essex County Council in partnership with Tendring District Council as one of the <a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tendringdc.uk%2Fluf-blocks%2Fdovercourt-town-centre-improvement-corridor&amp;data=05%7C02%7CPaul.Williams2%40essex.gov.uk%7Cdee9bd49f5194662fe6108dc5fbcf4e0%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C638490512363522993%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=QI%2FpoGjYHP6cE%2BM6Mu5y1HAzK6A0OpX0Bl5ML7v08HE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" aria-label="Link Dovercourt Capital Regeneration Projects" rel="noopener">Dovercourt Capital Regeneration Projects</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The project will see Adult Community Learning (ACL) return to Dovercourt town within a refurbished library, increasing the opportunities for residents to benefit from courses locally. &nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For further information or for any questions, please contact the project team at <a href="mailto:harwichlibraryaclproject@essex.gov.uk" target="_blank" aria-label="Link harwichlibraryaclproject@essex.gov.uk" rel="noopener">harwichlibraryaclproject@essex.gov.uk</a>. They would be happy to assist you with your queries.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harwich Library is set to undergo significant changes as part of a multi-million pound revamp for Dovercourt.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Changes at Harwich Library

summer-reading-challenge-volunteering

<div>
<h2><strong>Summer Reading Challenge Volunteering&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>Are you age 14 or over? Are you looking for something to do during the summer holidays? Why not become a Summer Reading Challenge Volunteer.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What is the role about?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>The Summer Reading Challenge is a national programme that runs during the school summer holiday. Children of all ages are encouraged to read six library books. All children taking part receive a certificate and a medal when they complete the challenge. You will be working with children and their parents or carers, encouraging them to join the challenge and talking to them about the books they have been reading.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What will it involve?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>Joining children to the Summer Reading Challenge&nbsp;</li>
<li>Talking with children about the books they have been reading and encouraging them to share their views and ideas&nbsp;</li>
<li>Handing out reading rewards including stickers and medals&nbsp;</li>
<li>Helping children to have fun and enjoy the Summer Reading Challenge&nbsp;</li>
<li>Encouraging children to read for pleasure&nbsp;</li>
<li>Assisting with administration, eg membership, filing&nbsp;</li>
<li>Assisting with other library duties when time allows&nbsp;</li>
<li>Helping customers by referring enquiries to library staff&nbsp;</li>
<li>Completing a post-volunteering survey&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What will you get from volunteering?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>Valuable work experience and new skills, good for the CV&nbsp;</li>
<li>Confidence in talking to children and adults&nbsp;</li>
<li>Meet new people&nbsp;</li>
<li>Pleasure of encouraging children to enjoy reading&nbsp;</li>
<li>The opportunity to make a positive contribution to the community&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What skills and experience do you need?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>A good team worker, able to work with library staff and other volunteers&nbsp;</li>
<li>Reliable, well organised and calm under pressure&nbsp;</li>
<li>Enthusiastic about encouraging children to read&nbsp;</li>
<li>Able to communicate with customers of all ages including parents&nbsp;</li>
<li>Able to talk to children about the books they have been reading&nbsp;</li>
<li>Friendly and approachable&nbsp;</li>
<li>Committed to helping libraries and our customers&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>How much time would you be asked to contribute?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>To be agreed, but a minimum of 18 hours (approximately 6 sessions of 3 hours each). You&rsquo;re welcome to complete more hours, and it may also be possible to volunteer for the Summer Reading Challenge at other libraries, by arrangement with the relevant libraries. &nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What training and support will you receive?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>Your placement library will invite you to a training session where you&rsquo;ll be given a tour of the library and the opportunity to meet library staff. We&rsquo;ll send you a number of email updates during the summer with information about your role, details about the Summer Reading Challenge and links to training and resources. There will also be ongoing support from local library staff.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>How do you apply?&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p><a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fessex-self.achieveservice.com%2Fservice%2FSummer_Reading_Challenge_volunteer&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7Ccf59092225be4968e11908da1c842cb7%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C637853651251423838%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=AUgQAhjMHFHooQvWXO4nCrIut%2Brff5R3BPSUjcz8AFk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Apply online</a> &ndash; closing date 23 June&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Please note -</strong> volunteers must be 14 and over by 1 September this year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The form will take approximately twenty minutes to complete. You will need to provide up to two references which will incluce email address, telephone number, address and the consent of your referee, emergency contact and if you are under 18, parent's contact details (email address).&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.  For libraries on a shared site (South Woodham Ferrers, North Melbourne and Stock) a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required if 16 or over.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>

<p>Volunteer for the Summer Reading Challenge 2024!</p>

Summer Reading Challenge Volunteering

spring-poetry-competition

<h1>Spring Poetry Competition: Protecting Nature</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>A collaboration between Essex Libraries and Chelmsford Museum</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>25 March to 20 April</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Enter our brand new kids poetry competition this spring!&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The theme&nbsp;of the competition is &lsquo;protecting nature&rsquo;, to fit with Chelmsford Museum's new exhibition &lsquo;Restless Brilliance: The story of J.A. Baker and The Peregrine&rsquo;. <a href="https://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums/whats-on/temporary-exhibitions/restless-brilliance-the-story-of-ja-baker-and-the-peregrine/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check out the exhibition</a>.</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>All kids can enter one of our three categories: under 6, 7 to 12 and 13 to 18. Poems must be along the theme of 'protecting nature'. Winners will receive some great prizes provided by Chelmsford Museum and their entries will be posted on our social media!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Alongside the <a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chelmsford.gov.uk%2Fmuseums%2Fwhats-on%2Fevents-and-activities%2Fvictorian-easter-cards-week-1%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CIsobel.Watts%40essex.gov.uk%7C792d75283f214667864708dc4cc5daae%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C638469659864970351%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=jWE%2Bp0VS5CNeh24oJPeTilRDBIn7ov7drr9WXReKKuI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Museum&rsquo;s Easter activities</a>, there will be a space where kids can pop along and write their poems. On Thursday 4 and Wednesday 10 April at 10.30am to 12pm and 1.30pm to 3pm, we&rsquo;ll be visiting the Museum to make the session extra special. No need to book!&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Entries can be handed into one of the following participating libraries or Chelmsford Museum by 20 April.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Broomfield</li>
<li>Chelmsford</li>
<li>Danbury</li>
<li>Galleywood</li>
<li>Great Baddow</li>
<li>North Melbourne</li>
<li>South Woodham Ferrers</li>
<li>Springfield</li>
<li>Stock</li>
<li>Writtle</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Write us a poem on the theme of 'protecting nature'!</p>

Spring Poetry Competition

a-few-pages-closer-to-a-new-chapter-at-shenfield-library

<p>A topping out ceremony has been held to celebrate completion of the structure of Shenfield&rsquo;s new library.</p>
<p>Once complete, the project will deliver a bright, new modern library and commercial space, with nine high quality apartments for sale above.</p>
<p>Construction work to replace the old library commenced in October 2022. The previous facility was ageing and in need of repair, with high ongoing maintenance costs.</p>
<p>The scheme will feature a modern library which will maximise natural light to provide a flexible and usable space for the local community.</p>
<p>A new public garden, outdoor learning and activity space will further enhance the library service offer.</p>
<p>The development is being delivered by Essex Housing, Essex County Council&rsquo;s in-house property developer.</p>
<p>Essex Housing was set up to turn underutilised public land and assets into housing and community buildings.</p>
<p>A succession of winter storms has impacted building activities on site, as a result of which completion of the development is now anticipated for Autumn 2024.</p>
<p>In the meantime, temporary library arrangements will continue to be provided a short distance away at Bishops Hill Adult Community Learning Centre in Poplar Drive.</p>

<p>Shenfield&rsquo;s new library comes a step closer with completion of the structure.</p>

A few pages closer to a new chapter at Shenfield Library

stylish-book-bags-for-sale

<p>On sale now in libraries are these strong, sturdy bags to carry your books and other items.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>They come in three varieties:</p>
<p>Cotton tote bags: &pound;3 each</p>
<p>Drawstring bags: &pound;3.50 each</p>
<p>Jute bags: &pound;6 each</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The bags are available at the following libraries: Basildon, Billericay, Braintree, Brentwood, Brightlingsea, Broomfield, Canvey, Chelmsford, Clacton, Colchester, Dunmow, Frinton, Great Tarpots, Hadleigh, Harlow, Harwich, Hullbridge (tote bags only), Loughton, Maldon, Manningtree, Prettygate, Saffron Walden, South Benfleet, Tiptree, Walton, West Mersea.</p>

<p>These strong, sturdy bags are on sale now in libraries.</p>

Stylish book bags for sale

get-your-tickets-for-the-essex-book-festival

<p>The box office for this year&rsquo;s Essex Book Festival is now open!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Now recognised as one of the leading festivals of its kind in the East of England,&nbsp;the <a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Essex Book Festival</a> gives you the chance to experience writers and artists from all over the world as they take part in activities and events in a range of venues across Essex.&nbsp; The focus is on the month of June.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Library Service is proud to be hosting seven public events as part of the Festival:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/the-silence-factory/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bridget Collins, &lsquo;The Silence Factory&rsquo;</a> at Wivenhoe Library: Wednesday 5 June at 7pm</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/one-love/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matt Cain, &lsquo;One Love&rsquo;</a> at Harlow Library: Thursday 6 June at 7pm</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/the-glutton/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A.K. Blakemore, &lsquo;The Glutton&rsquo;</a> at Maldon Library: Thursday 13 June at 7pm</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/a-bird-in-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Louise Doughty, &lsquo;A Bird in Winter&rsquo;</a> at Basildon Library: Friday 14 June at 7pm</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/death-on-the-thames/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alan Johnson, &lsquo;Death on the Thames&rsquo;</a> at Chelmsford Library: Wednesday 19 June at 7pm</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/the-grand-illusion/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Syd Moore, &lsquo;The Grand Illusion&rsquo;</a> at South Woodham Ferrers Library: Thursday 20 June at 7.30pm&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/dls-lecture-death-of-a-lesser-god/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vaseem Khan, &lsquo;Death of a Lesser God&rsquo;: annual Dorothy L Sayers Lecture</a> at Witham Library: Thursday 27 June at 7pm</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>To book for any of these events, please go to the Essex Book Festival website <strong>essexbookfestival.org.uk </strong>or call the Mercury Theatre on 01206 573948.</p>

<p>The box office for this year&rsquo;s Essex Book Festival is now open!</p>

Get your tickets for the Essex Book Festival!

family-maths-games

<h1>New games for boosting your little one&rsquo;s number skills!</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Stay and Play or Takeaway!</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>We&rsquo;ve got a fantastic range of new games available to play, either at home or in our libraries! All with a maths and numbers theme, these games will help kids improve their skills around counting, times tables, handling money, and more!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Our Games:</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Magic Maths</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_aa1d85ea-904c-4473-8ce6-9dd32da38a2e_638485355158181161/public" width="196" height="168" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Make maths fun with this wizard themed game. A unique way to support KS1 maths including addition subtraction and multiplication featuring magical rub and reveal technology. Suitable for ages 5-7 this is a fun educational game for 2-4 players.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415295" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Magic Maths to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Counting Mountain</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81vcISBtpYS.jpg" alt="Orchard Toys Counting Mountain Game, Educational Maths Game, Perfect for  Kids Age 4-8, Educational Game Toy &amp; First Times Tables Game, Helps Teach  2, ..." width="214" height="214" />&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Race to the summit in this exciting counting and addition game but watch out for Yetis who will chase you back down again. Suitable for 2-4 players aged 4-8 years.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415568" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Counting Mountain to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>First Times Tables</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_aa1d85ea-904c-4473-8ce6-9dd32da38a2e_638485355513562990/public" /></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>A fun multiplication game to help practise 2, 5 and 10 times table. Can be used as a learning resource to introduce young children to the concept of multiplication. The pancake theme makes practising times tables fun for little learners. Suitable for 2 to 4 players aged age 5 to 8.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415120" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve First Times Tables to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Bus Stop</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91zFL8hbpaL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" alt="Orchard Toys Bus Stop Game, Educational Addition and Subtraction Maths  Game, Teacher Tested, Perfect for Children Aged 4-8, Educational Toy Game ,  1 x ..." width="201" height="184" />&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>All aboard! A fun introduction to addition and subtraction as you count passengers on and off the bus whilst travelling around Orchard Town. Suitable for 2 to 4 players aged 4 to 8.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415543" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Bus Stop to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Mammoth Maths</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_aa1d85ea-904c-4473-8ce6-9dd32da38a2e_638485355771893586/public" /></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Solve maths problems using addition and subtraction to collect stone rings on your mammoth's trunk, the race back to the cave to win the game. Suitable for 2 to 4 players aged 5 to 8.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415628" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Mammoth Maths to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Number Bears</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_aa1d85ea-904c-4473-8ce6-9dd32da38a2e_638485358117295857/public" width="212" height="177" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>A fun learning experience: with simple gameplay, this number bonds game is a fun introduction to addition and subtraction that helps teach young children their number bonds. For 1 to 4 players, aged 5+.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415121" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Number Bears to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Pop to the Shops</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.orchardtoys.com/otl/i/pmi/030.webp?_t=2311122647&amp;w=636&amp;h=636&amp;format=jpeg" alt="Pop to the Shops Board Game" width="202" height="202" />&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>A fun shopping game for 2 to 4 players aged 5 to 9. Learn about handling money and giving change as you move from shop to shop and use play money to buy all kinds of items.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415521" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Pop to the Shops to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Times Tables Heroes</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.orchardtoys.com/otl/i/pmi/101.webp?_t=231112285&amp;w=636&amp;h=636&amp;format=jpeg" alt="Times Tables Heroes Game" width="207" height="207" />&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Master your Times Tables with these two exciting games. Practise 2, 5 and 10 times tables with the Multiplication Bingo, or flip over the board and save the city with the Times Tables Heroes. For 2 to 4 players aged 6 to 9 years.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415527" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Times Tables Heroes to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Shut the Box</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_aa1d85ea-904c-4473-8ce6-9dd32da38a2e_638485356827094330/public" width="210" height="158" /></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Shut the Box is easy to learn and play: the object is to shut all ten numbers by rolling dice. Children will love rolling the dice, working out scores and eliminating numbers whilst also practising their maths skills. The quick addition game substantially aids in number recognition. Set includes the Shut the Box board with 10 numbers and 2 wooden dice. Suitable for 2 to 4 players of ages 3 to 99.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3415426" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Shut the Box to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Nutty Numbers</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_aa1d85ea-904c-4473-8ce6-9dd32da38a2e_638485356237371537/public" /></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The player with the most acorns is the winner in this fun number game, but pick up a picnic card and it will end your or another player&rsquo;s game. Great for developing number recognition, counting and turn taking skills. For 2 to 4 players aged 4+.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/manifestations/69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074:3418881" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reserve Nutty Numbers to play at home.</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Available to borrow or play in some of our libraries!</p>

New family maths games!

welcome-to-essex-sculpture-exhibition

<h1><strong>Welcome to Essex Sculpture Exhibition</strong></h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>We're hosting the beautiful handiwork of artist Lata Upadhyaya at her sculptural installations in our libraries!</strong></h2>
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<p>We are thrilled to be hosting the wonderful artist Lata Upadhyaya in 2024, showing her new sculptural installation &lsquo;Welcome to Essex&rsquo;.</p>
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<p>This art exhibition celebrates the diversity of Essex, by taking a family of three Matryoshka dolls and transforming them with hand-painted fabric patterns which reflect the diverse communities that call Essex home. Lata&rsquo;s intricate handiwork creates a beautiful and colourful display of our communities and is definitely worth seeing up close!</p>
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<p><strong>Come along and see Lata&rsquo;s sculptures at:</strong></p>
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<p>Chelmsford Library, Monday 18 March to Friday 19 April</p>
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<p>Harlow Library, Monday 22 April to Friday 24 May</p>
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<p>This exhibition is free to attend and no booking is required.</p>
<p>Supported by the Essex County Council&nbsp;<a href="http://www.explore-essex.com/culture/arts-culture-fund" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arts and Cultural Fund</a>.</p>
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<p><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK2_9a66332f-e831-45a7-aa9b-54ea6e75cc05_638461295982308757/public" width="50%" /></p>
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<h3><strong>About &lsquo;Welcome to Essex&rsquo; Sculptures</strong></h3>
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<p><strong>Welcome to Essex</strong> (2023) transforms a family of three Matryoshka dolls with the identities of the communities that call Essex home, celebrating the rich diversity of contemporary Britain and reflecting on the valuable contribution that immigration has made to British society. Supported by the Essex County Council Arts and Cultural Fund.</p>
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<p>Each doll is hand painted with fabric patterns that represent the country of origin, ancestral roots, or the journey of migration from one country to another. They create a rich tapestry of togetherness, combining culture and lived experience, recognising that the origins of fabric are not always clear and are often influenced by different cultures.</p>
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<p><strong>Welcome to Essex</strong> builds upon earlier work <strong>We Are All Here&nbsp;</strong>(2021) when Lata installed a mobile library inside <strong>Arts in Transit</strong> (2019) and toured Estuary 2021 with an installation of books representing the history and culture of communities around the Thames Estuary. Each book cover represented a fabric of origin, inspired by the stories of migrants that have arrived in the UK, via Tilbury Docks, from across the British Empire.</p>
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<p>Lata developed <strong>Welcome to Essex</strong> during the summer of 2022, by hosting pop up workshops with <strong>Arts in Transit</strong> in the country parks of Essex, asking participants to represent their identities on the form of a Matryoshka doll. Each drawn identity helping to inspire the concept and design of the dolls, which are hand painted by Lata.</p>
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<h3><strong>Who is Lata Upadhyaya?</strong></h3>
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<p><strong>Lata Upadhyaya</strong> is a British Indian visual artist and social commentator, who migrated to the UK in the late nineties. Her socially engaged practice focusses on heritage and culture through the impact of people and place. Her own British Asian identity and experience of migration from East to West informs and inspires others to share and represent their own experiences. Lata&rsquo;s work represents the valuable contribution that immigration has made to British society, questioning the context of Britishness and what this means in relation to identity.</p>

<p>Come and see the incredible sculptures by Lata Upadhyaya at Chelmsford and Harlow libraries!</p>

Welcome to Essex Sculpture Exhibition

essex-library-service-and-literacy-a-levelling-up-update

<p>Raising Literacy levels across Essex has been a key priority for Essex Libraries over the past year. Not only have we installed an Everyone&rsquo;s Literacy Area in 74 libraries and trained our staff in the benefits of our new stock for customers, but we also have a Literacy Lead and Community Connector team, who have initiated several new activities and programmes for the Essex community. Since January 2023, the team have attended 333 events, engaged with over 23,000 customers (of whom 14,000 were children), and have signed up 1550 new library members.</p>
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<p>Building strong relationships with our partners has been key to our success this year. We&nbsp;have joined forces with the likes of the charities Read Easy, Shannon Trust and Trust Links, as well as public services such as Essex Police and the Fire Service. Essex Family Wellbeing Service, Adult Community Learning and local businesses such as Hopefield Animal Sanctuary and Colchester Zoo have also been extremely supportive of our work, allowing us to hold poetry competitions, workshops and story times on their sites and in collaboration with us in our libraries.</p>
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<h1>Everyone&rsquo;s Literacy Areas</h1>
<p>Brightlingsea, Feb 2023 &ndash;</p>
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<p>&ldquo;Children of a range of ages have enjoyed using the phonics magnet board a lot - making words and handling/saying/looking at the sounds. Customers have said that they particularly like having tactile elements in the Literacy Area. We have also enjoyed incorporating more phonics into Rhymetimes too as a follow on from this resource.&rdquo;</p>
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<p>One of our aims was to create Everyone&rsquo;s Literacy Areas in 74 libraries, housing new stock that is aimed at developing readers and supporting literacy difficulties. Across these areas, a total of 50,053 books have been loaned between June 2022- June 2023. Highlighting particularly a demand for early phonics books and grammar support, as shown by the number of Actiphons and Word Adventure published titles that have been loaned.</p>
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<p>Through linking with ACL tutors and Read Easy reading coaches, this area has provided adult students with support for reading for pleasure. The initiative has also created opportunities for volunteering across Essex, with reading support for adults and children, as well as Lego&reg; in Libraries session leaders. So far, we have nine new volunteers across the county, with more being processed at the moment.</p>
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<p>Schools have been pleased with the resources that we are offering to their children with literacy difficulties, commenting that they have appreciated the high interest low reading age stock.</p>
<p><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/UK_3e0d7f6e-9cf3-4d61-82c4-56d6ae4bc7ae_638409960257226149/public" /></p>

Essex Library Service and literacy: a levelling up update

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<p>The Workary at Harlow Library is the new, convenient, affordable home for startups, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses in the Harlow area.</p>
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<p>Join a community of like-minded business people, in an environment perfect for fresh thinking and innovative solutions.</p>
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<p>For &pound;65 per month (plus VAT) you can hire a hot desk. That&rsquo;s less than the cost of a cup of coffee per day. &pound;95 (plus VAT) gives you your own exclusive desk.</p>
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<p>Wi-Fi, unlimited basic tea and coffee, power and water come as part of the package. Don't forget there's an excellent cafe downstairs, too!</p>
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<p>Whether you&rsquo;re part of a big company, a freelancer or just getting started on your entrepreneurial journey, the Workary at Harlow is the place to be.</p>
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<p>Less commuting, more community!</p>

<p>The Workary at Harlow Library is the new, convenient, affordable home for startups, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses in the Harlow area.</p>

The Workary at Harlow Library

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<p><strong>Build, code and play with LEGO&reg; in libraries!</strong></p>
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<p>If you&rsquo;re a parent or carer with a child aged 6-11 who loves LEGO&reg;, why not sign up for our free LEGO&reg; in libraries project, funded by the Essex Year of Numbers? Your child will get the chance to improve their maths and English skills, while having fun playing with relatable LEGO&reg; characters!</p>
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<p>Using a combination of&nbsp;LEGO&reg; Education SPIKE&trade; Essential kits&nbsp;and Lenovo Chromebooks, children will guide characters through compelling stories and use problem-solving, literacy and coding skills to complete each unit.</p>
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<p><a href="https://library-events.essex.gov.uk/search?q=lego">Book on to a session </a>and come along to build, code and play!</p>
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<p><iframe style="width: 100%;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SNN4usbg56Q" width="503" height="283" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
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LEGO® in libraries - new sessions available!

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<h3><strong>It&rsquo;s as easy as one, two, three!</strong></h3>
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<p>Essex Library Service in partnership with Essex Country Parks, Talk Listen and Cuddle and the Essex Year of Numbers are launching Read and Count with Me Under a Tree book bags.&nbsp; These will be available to borrow, free of charge, from a number of libraries, Essex Country Parks, Cressing Temple Barns and the Forest School at Danbury.</p>
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<h3><strong><img src="https://imagedelivery.net/oK4LF9ZyGMZuLOsFKpvm7A/SDEMEA_0ddea58d-8a1a-4e54-98b5-a68fe1615a63_638283870821026300/public" /></strong></h3>
<h3><strong>What are the Read and Count with Me Under a Tree Book Bags?</strong></h3>
<p>Read and Count with Me Under a Tree are special bags containing some lovely picture books to share with your little ones in the great outdoors to encourage literary, numeracy and a love of nature from an early age. Titles include &lsquo;Mad About Minibeasts&rsquo; by Giles Andreae and a selection of other outdoor themed stories.</p>
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<p>The bags contain a ground sheet for you and your children to sit on and lots of activity ideas to try including seasonal spotter&rsquo;s guides &ndash; see what you can spot and count how many of each!</p>
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<p>The bags can be borrowed to use in the Essex Country Parks and from libraries to use in your local green space.</p>
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<h3>How do I borrow a &lsquo;Read and Count with Me Under a Tree&rsquo; book bag?</h3>
<p>To <a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flibraries.essex.gov.uk%2Fmanifestations%2F69DC044957C3442E9D384C5DF4E074%3A3388489&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7C660385da9cd7481c90a008db94f8e106%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C638267568870061073%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MgAvsInjygZamNx38DubreVYrLBs%2FrhO3Emi8Pl5T9s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">borrow a bag from the library</a> to use in your local green space, you can check if your&nbsp;local library&nbsp;has one in stock, or reserve one to be sent to a library of your choice.</p>
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<p>For the&nbsp;<a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.explore-essex.com%2Fresults%3Fsearch%3D%2522country%2Bpark%2522&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7C660385da9cd7481c90a008db94f8e106%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C638267568870061073%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Qu2ad7UyJcLuDinB5JtSRE1vMHcfkhbTskVYlI0PF5Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>seven Essex Country Parks</strong></a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.explore-essex.com%2Fresults%3Fsearch%3Dcressing%2Btemple&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7C660385da9cd7481c90a008db94f8e106%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C638267568870061073%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=fcfD06B%2B4Qx4gZVDmIt06oAf5Wmkma9jz36oebvMd2w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Cressing Temple</strong>&nbsp;</a>head to the caf&eacute; or Ranger&rsquo;s Office and ask to borrow one of the sets. Bags can be borrowed at Belhus Woods, Cudmore Grove, Danbury, Great Notley, Hadleigh, Thorndon and Weald (subject to staff and availability).</p>
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<p>Look out for the honesty 'borrow bins' outside the Kiosk at Cudmore and the refreshment van at Great Notley.</p>
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<p>You can also enjoy the book bags during Wild Wednesdays and Forest School sessions at Danbury Country Park.</p>
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<h3>What do I do to return the bag?</h3>
<p>When you&rsquo;ve finished enjoying the books and activities, please check all the contents are there, scan the QR card to give us your feedback and then return it. At staffed return points you will receive a free sticker, whilst stocks last.</p>
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<p>Everyone who completes the survey and leaves their contact details will be entered into a prize draw that will take place every six months to win a free Explorer pass (<a href="https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.explore-essex.com%2Fread-with-me-t-c&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7C660385da9cd7481c90a008db94f8e106%7Ca8b4324f155c4215a0f17ed8cc9a992f%7C0%7C0%7C638267568870061073%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=QjRE2TpAwdlMDOaf5ZsA2wMz%2FnO9yEYCjBY%2BOuumeBw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">terms and conditions apply, read the terms and conditions here</a>)</p>
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<p>These activities and borrow bags are provided to you by Essex Library Service, Essex Country Parks and Talk Listen and Cuddle and are part of the Essex Year of Reading and funded by Essex Year of Numbers.</p>

Read and Count With Me Under a Tree

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<p>Would you like access to a range of TV soaps, documentaries from the 1930s to 1960s and multicultural TV from the 1970s onwards? Well, we can give you that and so much more&hellip; introducing BFI Replay!</p>
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<p>We are proud to be partnering with the British Film Institute (BFI) to bring you access to 60 years of screen history. All available to use free of charge, library members can access the digital archives on the library computers.</p>
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<p>With National Lottery Funding and the support of the Esm&eacute;e Fairbairn Foundation, BFI have been able to digitalise thousands of moving image stories. There&rsquo;s plenty to choose from!</p>
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<p>BFI also has a range of historical content, which is perfect with Love Your Library Day fast approaching, as we have lots of events taking place in our libraries around the theme of Local and Community History.</p>
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<p>You&rsquo;ll have to pop in and see us to try it out for yourself, as this is an in-library service only.</p>
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<p><em>Disclaimer from BFI:</em></p>
<p>BFI Replay features 1000s of videos and programmes spanning six decades, from the 1960s to the 2010s. It allows people to explore thousands of videos and films from the collections of the BFI National Archive and partner UK Regions and Nations Film Archives.</p>
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<p>The BFI (British Film Institute) and the Regions and Nations Film Archive partners take our role as guardians and curators of our screen heritage very seriously and have devoted many hundreds of hours to viewing archival material to ensure selection of the most interesting, entertaining and historically valuable content.</p>
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<p>We have taken careful steps to exclude wholly unacceptable material from the platform, and to identify and label any sensitive material with appropriate warnings. But due to the very high number of titles involved, the BFI and our partners have not been able to view everything.</p>
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<p>If you have any concerns regarding content on BFI Replay please contact: replay@bfi.org.uk</p>

Introducing BFI replay!