We’re thrilled to report that Dyslexia Chatterbooks, our book group for children aged 8- 10, is going from strength to strength.
The next meeting takes place on Tuesday 20th December from 6.00 – 7.30pm in the Central Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.
We’d still be delighted to welcome any new members so if you know any children (p4 – p7) with dyslexia who’d be interested in coming along, or you’d like to find out more about the group, please contact simon.radcliffe@edinburgh.gov.uk
…in more ways than one, because it’s also a time when it’s fun to keep wonderful secrets! Come along to our crafty events at the children’s library and make a super-secret present for someone special!
On Wednesday, the 7th December, between 2pm and 3:30pm, we need some clever elves to pop in to help us make the children’s library look magical!
The day after, on the 8th December, between 2pm and 3:30pm, come and learn how to make gorgeous Christmas garlands!
Then on Wednesday, 14th December, between 2pm and 3:30pm, join us making Christmas cards AND calendars! This event is suitable for children aged 5 and up, and it’s a great opportunity to make a unique present for someone!
Finally, our tree is looking very sad without its decorations. Come us help us make it happy again on Friday 16th December from 10.30 – 12.00.
Also, because Santa loves libraries too, he’s asked us to put a very special postbox in the children’s library for all of your letters! Last post will be collected on December 12th at 5pm – your letters have a very long way to go!
We are currently carrying out some work to improve the performance of the libraries’ Peoples’ Network computers. This means there may be no internet access in some libraries for a time.
We need to carry out this work in order to increase bandwidth and speed up the performance of these machines. This will improve response times for logging in and internet page loading.
If you need to know more please contact your local library for details of People’s Network availability.
October holidays? Not for us! There are lots of spooky goings-on in libraries during the break – so don’t sit about the house all week; get out, get down to your local library and get active!
Here’s a selection of what’s going on – contact your nearest library to find out what activities and events they’ve got planned.
Storytelling with a leafy autumn twist
Ages 2 – 5. Wednesday 19th october, 10.30 – 11am
Write your own scary story or poem
Ages 7 – 11. Thursday 20th October, 3 – 4pm.
You’ll need a ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
“Snip of the tongue” – a Tell-a-Story Day event with fantastic props from the local Patchwork Guild
Friday 28th October, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Treasure Hunt: fancy dress, refreshments, raffle and fun
For children and families (under 8s must be accompanied by an adult). Monday 31st October, 6 – 7pm
Social event for teenagers – free and fun
Ages 11 – 14. Tuesday 1st November, 6.30 – 7.30pm.
You’ll need a ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Teen book group
For S4s. Thursday 27th October, 4 – 5pm
Are you ready for Halloween? If not, then you could have a real magical time with the Zoo Lab creepy crawlies. Guaranteed to make every adult feel squeamish but every child will absolutely love them.
A costumed presenter will lead you on a magical journey to meet some special animals and learn some interesting facts about them. Get up close to a giant land snail, a hissing cockroach, a tarantula, a giant millipede, a snake, a toad and a rat.
Come in and join in the fun!
Wednesday 19th October, 1 – 2pm. For more information and to get your FREE ticket, come along to South Queensferry library
Friday 28th October 2pm - Once Upon a Spooky time….. Come along if you dare for some spooky stories told in our witches lair.
Ghoulfest 2011, Wester Hailes Libaries’ Halloween Extravaganza! All the usual Halloween games and fun, plus a live performance from a local band. Fancy dress is a must if you want to be in with a chance of winning the Best Costume competition. Monday 31st October 6pm-7.30pm.
Just a quick one – next Friday’s Bookbug rhyme and song session for under 3s will take place in the Children’s Library instead of the Conference Room. Usual time (10.30 – 11.00am)
Due to a power failure the Central Children’s Library and Music Library are closed this morning. Hopefully this will get fixed and they’ll open again soon – we’ll keep you posted.
Our Circus Stars Summer Reading Challenge is in full swing. All over Edinburgh children are having fun and discovering the joys of reading.
Here at Central Library we’re especially looking forward to our exciting Juggling Words event with Lari Don, one of our favourite children’s writers and author of The Rocking Horse War, How to make a heron happy and The Big Bottom Hunt.
Real life circus stars Oli and Gus will be joining in the fun, and there will be lots more activities and surprises on the day.
Juggling Words takes place on Thursday 21 July in Central Library from 11.30am – 1.00pm. Everyone’s welcome, but children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.You can pick up a free ticket from the Central Lending Library or reserve a place by calling 0131 242 8047 or emailing informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk
‘Circus Stars’ is our theme for this year’s reading challenge – so there will be lots of clowning about in libraries this summer! Scroll down to see what’s happening at your local library (if it’s not listed give them a call to find out what’s happening, or ask the next time you’re in).
To find out more about the summer reading challenge take a look at this video or head over to the Circus Stars site.
Big Top Bazaar
Thursday 11 August, 2pm
Ages 6 – 11
This summer we’re also running Comic Life worskhops for 12 – 15 year-olds from 2 – 4pm on Tuesday 12 July, Wednesday 27 July and Monday 8 August. Spaces are limited to 6 per group, so make sure you sign up for a place by contacting the library as soon as possible.
Story telling
Wednesday 6th July, 2- 2.45pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 0 – 5
The Circus Comes to Town: help us decorate our circus wall frieze with all your favourite circus characters.
Thursday 7th July, 2.00 -3.30pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 4-12
Polish story telling
Wednesday 13th July, 2.00 – 2-45pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 0 – 5
Crazy Circus Crafts: badge making fun and circus carousel and mobiles to be built
Thursday 14th July, 2.00 -3.30pm in the Conference Room, Central Library
Ages 4 and up
Story telling
Wednesday 20th July, 2.00 – 2-45pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 0 – 5
Juggling Words! Books, reading and circus fun with children’s writer Lari Don and circus stars Oli and Gus
Thursday 21 July, 11.30am – 1.30pm
All ages, but children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Free, but ticketed, pick up a ticket from the Central Lending Library or contact informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk or call 0131 242 8047 to reserve a place.
Come and Paint all the Fun of the Fair: Join in with some messy fun; help us ‘paint’ our clown mural, no brushes allowed! Aprons will be provided; mums and dads can join in too.
Thursday 21st July, 2.00 -3.30pm in the Conference Room, Central Library
Ages 6 and up.
Polish story telling
Wednesday 27th July, 2.00 – 2.45pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 0 – 5
Elmer Packs His Trunk and Heads to the Circus: Elmer has lost his patches, help us find them (we’re also making fun clown plates)
Thursday 28th July, 2-3.30pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 4 and up
Story telling
Wednesday 3rd August, 2.00 – 2-45pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 0 – 5
Roll Up and Meet the Stars of the Circus: make ringmasters and clowns.
Thursday 4th August, 2.00 -3.30pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 5 and up
Polish story telling
Wednesday 10th August, 2.00 – 2.45pm in the Central Children’s Library
Ages 0 – 5
Clowning Around: face painting fun and crafts
Thursday 11th August, 2.00 -3.30pm in the Conference Room
Ages 5 and up
Introducing Corstorphine’s big top: come along and help create a 3d wall frieze
Monday 11 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages: 5-12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Zoolab Circus Workshop: meet nature’s very own contortionists, acrobats, clowns and weight -lifters
Monday 18 July, 11.00am – 12 noon
Ages 5 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Explore Learning Circus Stars Workshop
Thursday 21 July, 4.00 – 5.00pm
Ages 5 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
The biggest little show on earth: create a miniature ‘ant’ circus and bring it to life
Monday 25 July, 11.30am – 12.30pm
Ages 5 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Clowning around: make a clown head and dress up with fun clown accessories
Monday 1 August, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 5 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus party: all the fun of the circus! Dress up and win a prize for the best costume
Monday 8 August, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 5 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus collage: help make a circus themed collage to display in the library
Monday 4 July, 3.00 – 4.30pm
Ages: 5 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Clowning around: face painting and making clown hats
Friday 15 July, 3.00 – 4.30pm
Ages: 5 -11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Zoolab Circus Workshop: meet nature’s very own contortionists, acrobats, clowns and weight -lifters Monday 18 July, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Ages 5 – 12 You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus skills workshop: practice juggling, hula hoops and stilts
Wednesday 27 July, 2.30 – 4.00pm
Ages: 5 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Comic Life: use the Comic Life computer programme to make a circus-themed comic book
Thursday 4 August, 2.30 – 4.00pm
Ages: 10 and up
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus Felt: make a huge clown’s face to display in the library
Thursday 11 August, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Roll up, roll up! Reading challenge launch including registration, quizzes and a treasure hunt
28 June – 1 July
Ages 4- 12
Clown around: make a start at creating the library’s circus clown
Friday 5 July, 2.00 – 2.30pm
Ages 4- 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Juggle and read aloud: tell a joke while juggling pom-poms
Thursday 21 July, 11.00 – 11.30am
Ages 4- 12
Big feet: cut out, colour in and stick up big clown feet round the library
Monday 8 August, 2 – 3pm
Ages 4- 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Celebrity circus carnival
Friday 19 August, 3 – 4pm
Ages 4 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Clown biscuits and door hangers craft event
Friday 1 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 8 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus rhymes and crafts
Friday 15 July, 10.30 – 11.30am
For under fives
Clown hats and badgemaking
Thursday 9 August, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 5 – 10
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Popcorn bags and balloon decorating
Tuesday 16 August, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 7 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Clowning around for under fives – stories, rhymes and a snack!
Every Monday throughout July and August, 10.30 – 11.15am
Box of tricks! Circus-themed items to play and dress up with from the Darroch Centre PLUS colour-ins, quizzes, word searches and more
Every Friday throughout July and August, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 5 – 10
Tricky Ricky the Magician (and Bingo the Dog!)
Thursday 14 July, 2pm
Ages 5 – 10
Contact the library 2 weeks beforehand to book a place
Giant Big Top Collage – have fun making a collage to decorate the library
Tuesday 26 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 5 – 10
Zoolab Circus: meet nature’s very own contortionists, acrobats, clowns and weight-lifters
Wednesday 3 August, 3.30 – 4.30pm
Ages 5 – 12
Free but ticketed. Call Leith library on 0131 529 5517 to book a place
We’ve got lots of Circus Crafts events this summer:
1st July Come and help us decorate the library for the Summer Reading Challenge
8th July Make your miniature circus tent
15th July Create a clown hat
22nd July Design a huge clown tie
29th July Design a picture of your favourite circus book
5th August Make animal masks
12th August Design a poster for your dream circus coming to town
19th August Make a circus tiger
26th August Elephant competition
All these events start at 3pm and finish at 4pm
Ages: 4 – 12
It’s Showtime: Circus Stars Party
Sunday 31 July, 2.30 – 4.00pm
Ages: 6 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus Stories for the under fives
Tuesday 12 and 19 July, 3.30 – 4.00pm
Ages: 2 – 5
All our Circus Stars events will take place in Morningside Parish Church Hall in Cluny Gardens – this is because the library is currently closed for refurbishment.
Circus Stars Bookbug
Thursday 7 July, 10.30 – 11.00am
Ages: up to 3 years
Horrid Henry afternoon: stories and games featuring Horrid Henry and friends
Thursday 28 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 5 -10
Street games of days gone by (peever, jacks, whip and peerie…)
Friday 22 July, 2.15 – 3.45pm
Ages five and up
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Musical Animal Extravaganza
Thursday 11 August, 11.00 – 11.30am
For under fives
Zoolab Circus Workshop
Tuesday 9 August, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Ages 4- 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Zoolab circus workshop
Tuesday 19 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
Ages 4 – 11 (and families)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Creative writing workshop with Explore Learning
Thursday 21 July, 10 – 11am
Ages 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus Frieze arts and crafts
Sunday 24 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
All children and families welcome
Tricks with award-winning showdog Flora
Two shows onTuesday 24 July: 2.00 – 2.30pm AND 3.30 – 4.00pm
All children and families welcome
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Street games of days gone by (peever, jacks, whip and peerie etc…)
Monday 1 August, 10.30 – 12.30pm
For children over 5 and their families
Oxgangs’s Got Talent party
Thursday 11 August, 2.30 – 4.00pm
Ages 4 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event, and entrants must register beforehand. Contact the library for details.
Arts and crafts
Every Friday starting 8 July, 2.30 – 3.30pm
All children and families welcome
Circus Storytelling for children
Wednesdays, 10.30 – 11.00am
Tiger tales
Saturday 9 July and 6 August, 2.30 – 3.30pm
For children aged 4 -8 and their parents
Make a clown puppet
Thursday 14 July, 3 – 4pm
Ages 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus themed colour-in competition Tuesday 19 July, 3 – 4pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
Pin the nose on the clown Wednesday 20 July, 11am – 12pm
Ages: 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus cookie decorating
Thursday 21 July, 3 – 4pm
Ages 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Paper plate clown masks Tuesday 26 July, 11am – 12pm
Ages: 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus box
Wednesday 27 July, 3 – 4pm
Ages: 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Build a clown car from recycled rubbish
Thursday 28 July, 3 – 4pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus biscuit decorating
Tuesday 2 Aug, 3pm – 4pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus themed colour-in competition
Wednesday 3 Aug, 11am – 12pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus craft event
Thursday 4 August, 3 – 4pm
Ages 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus Costumes Tuesday 9 August, 11am -12pm
Ages 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
ECFI healthy eating to make you strong Wednesday 10 August, 3 – 4pm
Ages 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Circus fridge magnets
Thursday 11 August, 3 – 4pm
Ages 8 and up (under 8s to be accompanied by a carer over 12)
Marvellous Model Circus – Make your big top
Monday 4 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Marvellous Model Circus: Week 1 – Ringmasters
Thursday 7 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Crazy Clown Hats
Monday 11 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Clown Puppet Making
Tuesday 12 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Marvellous Model Circus: Week 2 – Clowns
Thursday 14 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Zoolab Circus Workshop
Friday 15th July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Make your own juggling balls
Monday 18 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus cookie decorating
Tuesday 19 July, 2 – 3pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Marvellous Model Circus: Week 3 – Animals
Thursday 21 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Balloon workshop with Magic Ian
Friday 22 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Mad Strongman Moustaches
Monday 25 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Marvellous Model Circus: Week 4 – Horses
Thursday 28 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus Smoothies with Edinburgh Community Food
Friday 29 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
The Amazing Paper Plate Elephant
Monday 1 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Marvellous Model Circus: Week 5 – Monkeys
Thursday 4 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus Story Adventure with Beth Cross
Saturday 6, Sunday 7 and Saturday 12 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus Face Painting
Monday 8 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus Fridge Magnets
Tuesday 9 August, 2 – 3pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus Skills with Jim Balloch
wednesday 10 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Marvellous Model Circus: Week 6 – Acrobats
Thursday 11 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Circus in a jar
Tuesday 2 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 and over (under 8s welcome if accompanied by a carer over 12)
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details
Facepainting workshop
Tuesday 5 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Lions and Tigers and Bears Oh My!
Thursday 7 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 – 8
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Clown around
Tuesday 12 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7- 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Sweet Treats
Wednesday 13 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Badgemaking
Friday 15 July, 1.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 6 and up
Badgemaking
Monday 18 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 and up
Elmer’s elephants
Wednesday 20 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: under fives
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Big top crafts
Monday 25 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 and up
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Fairgound Food
Thursday 28 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus costume design
Monday 1 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Crazy creatures
Wednesday 3 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 and up
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
The Cube
Tuesday 9 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
My little circus pony
Tuesday 9 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 – 8
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Facepainting workshop
Monday 4 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Lions and tigers and bears oh my!
Wednesday 6 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 – 8
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Clown around
Monday 11 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Harry Potter Day Drop-In Event
Thursday 14 July, 11am – 4pm
Ages: 8 and up
Badgemaking
Tuesday 19 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 and up
Elmer’s Elephants
Thursday 21 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: under fives
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Fairground Food
Monday 25 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Big top Crafts
Tuesday 26 July, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 and up
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
‘All the fun of the fair’ afternoon
Friday 29 July, 1pm – 4pm
Ages: 7 – 11
Circus costume design
Ttuesday 2 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 7 – 11
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Crazy Creatures
Thursday 4 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 and up
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
The cube
Monday 8 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 8 – 12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
My little circus pony
Tuesday 9 August, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Ages: 5 – 8
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Circus star gazing: colour in and cut out your favourite circus performers and animals
Tuesday 28 June, 3.00 – 3.45pm
Ages 4 -12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
American Circus Razzmatazz: mix the stars with the stripes at our circus carnival
Monday 4 July, 3.00 – 3.45pm
Ages 4 -12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Big nose: can you stick the nose back on the clown’s face with your eyes closed?
Tuesday 19 July, 3.00 – 3.45pm
Ages 4 -12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
There’s an elephant in my bedroom: decorate your own ‘do not disturb’ door handle sign
Friday 5 August, 3.00 – 3.45pm
Ages 4 -12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
Crazy circus bookmarks
Tuesday 23 August, 3.00 – 3.45pm
Ages 4 -12
You’ll need a (free) ticket for this event. Contact the library for details.
All our events are mainly for anyone aged 8 – 12. Under 8s will need to be accompanied by a parent or carer over 12.
Circus School: each week we’ll learn a new circus skill and on the last day we’ll bring our skills together to put on a talent show
Monday afternoons from 4 July until 15 August
Just a quick reminder that libraries will be closed on Good Friday (22nd April) and Easter Monday (25th April). However, during the Easter weekend, libraries will be open on Saturday 23 April and Sunday 24 April if they are usually open on a Sunday.
We’ll also be closed for the Royal Wedding on Friday 29th April. To set the mood take a look our Royals in Edinburgh exhibition, featuring pictures of city streets and buildings festooned in decorations and bunting to welcome kings and queens to Edinburgh.
See the crowds thronging the streets to catch a glimpse of their monarch and check out some lovely pictures of a community in Gorgie celebrating the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 with a street party and dancing. There are also earlier images of the Queen, when as Princess Elizabeth, she visited the city with her parents in September 1945 to celebrate the victorious end of World War Two.
We’re busy planning lots of craft events for kids this Easter. Keep your eye on this page as we’ll be adding more events in the next few days and weeks…
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory workshop” Explore Learning Literacy Workshop for 5-11 year olds. Come along and design your own chocolate bar complete with magical powers and wrapping design. Places limited, to book a place contact the Library. Tuesday 12th April 5.00pm-6.00pm
“Spring Songs and Rhymes”. Join us for Bookbug Sessions for 0-4 year olds (Drop in event). Thursday 14th April 10.30am-11.30am or 2.00pm-2.30p
“Spring stories” for under 5′s (Drop in event). Saturday 16th April 10.00am-10.30am
“Crafty Cards and Bonkers Baskets” Easter crafts event for 5-11 year olds. Places limited, to book a place contact the Library. Tuesday 19th April 2.30pm-3.30pm
Myths, Stories & Mysteries: Re-staging the Easter Drama: Monday, 11 April until Friday, 22 April
Easter Frieze Craft Session - paint a rainbow, tree blossom, bunnies & butterflies, flowers & frogs: Monday, 11 April @ 2.00 pm until 2.30 pm (ask the library for a ticket for this event)
Eggstravaganza - design a giant Easter Egg, go on an eggword hunt, make bookmarks and egg door handles, pin the tail on the bunny: Friday, 15 April @ 11.15 am until 12.00 pm (ask the library for a ticket for this event)
Daddies, Mummies and Bunnies Come for Afternoon Tea – enjoy a selection of egg cressheads, choco cupcakes, egg sandwiches. Also easter egg colouring-in competition: Thursday, 21 April @ 3.15 pm until 3.45 pm
Cute and cool Easter baskets – have fun making and filling! Friday 15th April, 2.45-3.30pm, ages 5 – 10
Bunny Jewellery – design and make your own bracelets and necklaces – colour-ins and Easter quizzes too! Thursday 21st April, 2.30 – 3.30pm, ages 5 – 10
Stop Motion Animation: Get involved in this exciting stop motion project and help to make your own short film!
Mondays 11th, 18th and 25th April (2.30pm) Age range: 7 – 12
Fluttering Finger Bugs: Learn how to make your own fluttery finger bug puppets at Moredun library
Tuesday 12th April (2.30pm)
Age range: any
Cube Craft: Colour in and make your own rabbit and chick cube craft models
Wednesday 20th April (6.30pm)
Age range: any
Our Easter activities and events suitable for 5 and over, under 8′s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are available from Portobello library, please ask staff for details.
Crafts for Easter, make something fun for Easter: Wednesday 13th April, 3.30pm
Special Easter Storytime: Thursday 14th April, 3.30pm
Easter Badgemaking Fun: Tuesday 19th April, 3.30pm
Children are also invited to contribute to our Easter Frieze over the holiday period with a special prize for the best picture! Ask staff for details.
There will also be a special Easter Bookbug Rhymetime on Saturday 16th April at 3.30pm for under 5′s and their parents/carers. All welcome, no ticket required.
As usual we’ve got tons of activities for all the family in the run up to Christmas and over the holiday period. Find out what’s happening at yourlocal library…
Corinne Davies and El Ashfield, author and illustrator of the ‘Ralph’ books will be running a ‘Vampire Workshop’ at Corstorphine library between 3.00 and 5.30pm on Thursday 28th October.
Parents and children are all invited to join in the fun with craft activities, tattoos, edibles, face painting and a workshop in how the book was actually created. Any children feeling brave enough to read their favourite part of the text aloud will qualify for a further vampire treat!
The author and illustrator will also be signing copies of this new latest Ralph adventure, which has been highly commended by the Scottish Booktrust and School Library Association.
Halloween attire very welcome, so come along and join in the fun….IF YOU DARE!!
Ralph is (not) a Vampire is currently nominated for four literary awards. Copies are available for purchase /signing on the day at £5.99.
Craigmillar library is running a ghastly week of Halloween events. Are you brave enough to take part?
Monday 18th October. 3.00: Help scare people with a nervous disposition by decorating the libary with all sorts of ghoulish things, including a giant spiders web.
Tuesday 19th October. 3.00. Test out your knowledge of the supernatural with our Halloween quiz. Who is the Headmaster of Hogwarts? Is Caspar a friendly ghost? Which is the cat, Meg or Mog?
Wednesday 20th October. 3.00. Help fill our walls with wizards, witches and magical creatures that send a shiver up your spine. We are making a Frieze and need some brave children to help us complete it.
Thursday 21st October. 3.00. Quite possibly the most horrific event we have ever done at Craigmillar. Skull Making. Come and join in this disgraceful event.
Friday 29th October. 3.00. Halloween Party. Dooking for apples, Mummy wrapping, Doughnut dangling and other spooky happenings. Join our Fancy Dress party.
Saturday 30th October 10.30-11.30. Craigmillar Books for Babies October Rhymetime: Halloween Fun! With Storyteller Eric Brennan.
Spooky stories (ages 3 – 5) on Wednesday 20 October from 2.30 – 3.00pm. No need to book, just turn up and be prepared to join in!
Halloween Party on Sunday 31 October from 2 – 4pm. most suitable for ages 4 – 8, but all welcome. We’ll have crafts, games and stories… and a few spooky surprises! Tickets available from the library.
We’re also having a special event as part of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Under the harvest moon – songs and stories from near and far to welcome in the Autumn. Most suitable for ages 3 – 8, but all welcome. Tickets available from the library.
On Friday 29th October we are going to have a Halloween party with storytelling, dooking for apples and cakes on string. We’ll also be painting Halloween papier mache balloon heads, which we are going to use as piñatas for kids to smash. Its going to be from 2-3pm and tickets are available from the library.
This Sunday (17th Oct) from 2-3pm we’ll be making spooky paper lanterns - bring the whole family!
For older children and teenagers we’re hosting a Spooky Sparkly Nails art and craft event. This one’s on Friday 22nd Oct from 2.30 – 3.30pm.
2-5 year-olds can come along to our Share a story: Spooky Tales event on Wednesday 27th from 10.30 – 11am then we’ll round things off with a party on Friday 29th from 2.30 – 3.30. If you’re aged between 4 and 11 come along but remember to pick up your ticket from Oxgangs Library beforehand
Make your own Halloween Mask! Thursday 21 October, 3.30 – 4.30pm. For children aged 4 – 12. You can also come along to our craft session next Monday – 18th October – and make your own ‘do not disturb’ door hanger. For children aged 3 – 12.
Please note, for both Piershill events, children under 8 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 12 years old. Tickets available from the library.