The Big Book of Newham Libraries

The Book of Newham Libraries is missing!

The orderly (and more than a little grumpy) Chief Librarian Long Arm is determined to track it down. Joined by kindly Library Assistant Maria, he embarks on a time-travelling adventure to search libraries across time and around the globe.

Only when travelling to Newham itself will Chief Long Arm discover that it wasn't just The Book of Newham Libraries that he'd been missing in his traditional world of high bookshelves and hushed silences, but the lively communities that make Newham Libraries so special.

An interactive storytelling performance for families — created by Discover Children's Story Centre with residents from across Newham and library staff, past and present.

MORE ABOUT DISCOVER
Based in Newham for over 20 years, Discover is a place where children and their families can enjoy playing, learning and making up stories together. Discover.org.uk

MORE ABOUT THIS PROJECT
What are libraries? Why do they exist? Whose idea was it to create spaces where we can read, learn and explore stories?

We have some incredible library buildings in Newham — from Grade II listed buildings gifted by Carnegie to the more contemporary spaces of Beckton Globe and Stratford libraries. All have amazing stories of how they came to be and how they are used and cared for by our community.

Working closely with Newham Libraries, Discover is delving into the history of four sites in particular: Plaistow, Custom House, East Ham and Forest Gate. Digging through the archives, talking to library staff and community leaders, and exploring memories in Story Building workshops with Newham families.

All the stories collected now feed into a brand new interactive storytelling performance for families during Newham Heritage Month in June 2024 — celebrating the magic of our libraries and the generations of Newham residents who enjoy them then, now and in years to come.