Step into the vibrant world of your local East Sussex library, and you might be surprised by what you find.
Your Library offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for everyone. From quiet study spaces to lively children’s sessions, free computers and friendly social groups, these welcoming spaces truly have something for everyone.
To give you a glimpse into this friendly and sociable environment, we’ve spent a week with Henry, one of our fantastic East Sussex librarians.
Monday – Starting the week with free audiobooks
“My week kicks off bright and early, even before the library doors open. My walk to work is made all the more enjoyable with headphones on, completely absorbed in my latest favourite audiobook. I love listening to the free library audiobook apps – it’s pretty much a library in my pocket! It’s the perfect way to relax and immerse myself in someone else’s life before the busy day ahead. Imagine your favourite audiobook playing while you relax at home or a gripping e-book on your commute, all without a library visit! Our digital library is open 24/7 at home or on the go”.
“We open at 10am in Hastings library and already there’s a queue of people. Some eager to use the library to study or just find a quiet spot to work. We’ve got popular non-fiction on almost any subject, but the library is also a great place to just to sit and think, or simply ‘be’. You can even bring your own coffee! If you need a more formal space, we have bookable pods, perfect for a meeting or interview. From books and online journals to scanners, printers, and free wifi, you’ll find everything you need to succeed.
“At 10.15 am at Eastbourne library, our dedicated team of ‘IT for You’ volunteers are ready to help our customers with their IT issues. You can bring in your own device, learn how to use the library apps, brush up on your Excel skills, research your family history with the library’s free subscription to Ancestry, or manage your finances – our volunteers cover it all. And if you prefer to learn in a group, our ‘IT for You Together‘ sessions are a great way to learn from peers and make new friends.”
Tuesday – Tunes and tiny tots at your local East Sussex library
“It’s Tuesday, 10.30am in Uckfield library, and I’m ready for possibly my favourite part of the job: Rhyme and Story Time! Singing helps babies and toddlers with language, memory, and emotions, and it’s also great fun for grown-ups too! It’s cathartic to throw your inhibitions aside and launch into a hearty rendition of ‘Old MacDonald Had a Farm’ – one of my personal favourites! It’s also a great opportunity to meet other parents and carers and for the youngsters to bang a tambourine and socialise!”
Wednesday – New book day!
“Wednesday morning means library delivery. And all the customer requests and reservations arrive. I feel like a kid in a sweet shop, handling all the books and getting ideas for my ‘To be read’ list. It’s easy to log in and add books to your list, so you’re never stuck for a read! It’s free to reserve up to six books, so if your local East Sussex library doesn’t stock the book you want, or you need to get on the list for the latest in-demand bestseller, you can speak to us or reserve it online”.
“Lunch break is the perfect opportunity to catch up on world events with PressReader. It offers all the international and national press in one app. Plus, there are loads of great magazines, from the erudite to the quirky, the sedentary to the sporty”.
“And here’s a little secret for your wallet! There are so many free resources for you to use at at your local East Sussex library – unlimited wifi, those gripping audiobooks, the latest magazines, and all those fantastic reads”.
Thursday – A place for new friends
“Thursday at 2pm at Heathfield library, it’s time to set up the chairs and tables for our Reading Friends group. Reading Friends meet once a week to talk about reading and anything else that interests them. You don’t have to read anything before the session, and everyone is welcome, so come along, meet new people, and share stories together”.
“All our libraries host many regular social events for adults and young people. We have knit and natter groups, friendly board game afternoons, writing workshops, and conversation groups – relaxed, volunteer-led sessions to help international adults improve their spoken English. It’s a great opportunity to meet new friends and enjoy a chat”.
“I am always in awe of our fabulous volunteer team – they add so much value to our libraries’ offer. They help customers with their family history research and IT issues. We have adult reading mentors and volunteers who deliver books to the housebound.”
Friday – A time for shared memories
“Friday mornings are always special, too. If you’re ever near Battle Library on a Friday between 11 am and 12.30 pm, you’ll find one of my wonderful colleagues helping out at our weekly reminiscence group. It’s truly heart-warming to see how our special reminiscence kits (packed with items to spark memories) help people share their stories and experiences. These friendly drop-in sessions are open to all, and yes, you can borrow these kits for free with your library card!”
Saturday – Fun and games for all ages
“Saturday means it’s time to get the board games out! We hold Open Games Sessions in our libraries. A selection of games are available to play, from Scrabble to Pass the Pigs. All ages are welcome; no need to book, just drop in and play! We also have Lego, Duplo, and colouring sheets for our younger customers.”
Visit your local East Sussex Library…
As you can see, a week in the life of a librarian like Henry is never dull! From sparking imagination in children to helping adults with digital skills and fostering community connections, East Sussex libraries are vibrant, welcoming spaces ready to unlock new opportunities for you.
Discover more about your local East Sussex library service and share the library love with your friends and family! It’s free to join East Sussex libraries. You can join online or pop into your local library.
Please note: Individual library opening and closing times may vary, as may class and group schedules. We recommend checking with your local branch before visiting.
