January with Richmond Libraries

Black Girl from Pyongyang

Monica Macias is in conversation with Becky Branford at this launch event for the paperback release of Black Girl from Pyongyang by Richmond based publisher Duckworth Books.

This remarkable memoir details the extraordinary true story of a West African girl’s upbringing in North Korea under the guardianship of President Kim Il Sung.

Join Monica and her co-writer Becky in conversation as they discuss Monica’s story and the forthcoming documentary it has inspired.

Little Seedlings Gardening Club

At Little Seedlings Gardening Club, you won’t get in trouble for digging in the dirt! Have fun out in nature learning about plants and how to take care of them in Ham Library’s community garden. Meet pollinators and bugs, discover facts about a variety of plants and try your hand at themed arts and crafts. This month we will be making ornaments and figurines with air dry clay – using leaves to imprint too!

Sessions are open to children aged 8 years and under, accompanied by an adult.

Researching family & local history 

Do you want to discover the history of your house, your family, or your local area? Richmond borough's Local Studies Library & Archive services team will show you how in this informative talk. From luxury hotels to workhouse inmates, who knows what interesting facts you could uncover thanks to these wide-ranging historical collections?

This talk is part of the Reminiscence Café series of events. A free event - no booking required.

Got a new gadget?

Project Linus quilting sessions

Help Project Linus UK and Richmond libraries create a quilt for a child in need at this Winter Warmers community crafting activity. All materials are provided, this a great opportunity to learn new techniques whilst supporting a worthy cause!

Project Linus UK is a network of needlewomen across the UK who make quilts and blankets for babies, children and teens who are going through challenging times.

Knitting Group

Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting or cross stitch? Bring whatever you're working on and join our friendly group for a morning of making. Crafters of all levels are welcome to join these informal gatherings to learn some tips, gain inspiration, and meet new people. 

Plant dye printing workshop

Hapa Zome is a simple but elegant Japanese printmaking technique, which involves pressing and crushing fresh flowers and leaves into fabric to create images. See a demo of the technique then create your own completely natural designs. Materials will be provided, but if you have certain flowers or leaves you’d like to try, do bring them along!

Introductory poetry writing workshops

Nurture your love of poetry and have a go at writing your own material under the expert guidance of local published poet Barbara Lee. Each friendly and informal workshop will explore poetry from different authors, followed by a discussion and the chance to write your own poem.

No previous writing experience is required!

Spark Joy with KonMari Organising 

Local KonMari consultants Judith Clarkson and Bukunola Onabolu invite you to join an inspiring talk where they'll share practical tips from Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method. Learn how to declutter and organise your space, setting the stage for a joy-filled and well-organised new year.

Don't miss this opportunity to spark joy and embrace a fresh beginning!

Gentle yoga for everyone

See the library from an exciting new angle in 2024 with a free gentle yoga class!
With a focus on deep breathing, mindfulness and slow stretches, these classes are suitable for all abilities. Starting and ending with meditation, these restorative yoga classes are sure to leave you feeling zen. Please bring your own mat and wear comfortable clothing. 

Tabletop games for everyone

Whether you are a board game enthusiast or new to the scene, come and join us for these Winter Warmer gaming sessions. Choose from games available in libraries or bring along your favourite to share.

Make do and mend workshops

Learn how to make a crochet headband or fingerless gloves. All materials provided, just turn up for the fun. 

In February learn how to make everlasting flowers for Mother's Day and at Teddington Library in March, an Easter themed project awaits.