October with Richmond Libraries

Richmond Reads 2026

Green Libraries Week

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor exhibition

Throughout October, Black Cultural Archives’ exhibition celebrating the life and work of renowned composer and conductor Samuel Coleridge-Taylor will tour libraries across the borough.

Join us to discover the story and legacy of one of Britain’s most celebrated Black classical musicians. Visitors can also enjoy listening sessions featuring Coleridge-Taylor’s music and explore the cultural influences and experiences that shaped his remarkable work.

Silent Book Club

Black British Ballet

Discover the untold stories of Black British ballet from the 1940s to the present day with former professional dancer, now academic and researcher, Dr Sandie Bourne.

Drawing on her research, she reveals the lives of pioneering dancers who challenged discrimination, broke barriers, and transformed the art form. This fascinating talk explores an often- overlooked chapter of Britain's cultural history and celebrates the remarkable individuals who left a lasting mark on British ballet.

Once upon an invention

Join Science Owl for a fun family workshop where we’ll turn stories into creativity!

Together we'll read a story, imagine new ideas, build an invention, help solve an environmental challenge.

Echoes in the dark:  Bat talk and walk

Step into the elusive twilight world of bats with local conservation charity, Habitats and Heritage.

Start with a fascinating talk at Grove Gardens Chapel, then head out on a guided walk through the Old Burial Ground with a bat detector. Listen for bat calls, learn how to identify different species, and uncover amazing facts about our local bat populations.
No experience needed and bat detectors are provided.

People's Emergency Briefing - On the climate and nature crisis

The UK faces a growing climate and nature emergency. Yet most people have never been fully briefed on what it means for our lives, our economy and our future. Join us at this screening of the People's Emergency Briefing, a film about climate and nature emergency and how it impacts you. Following the film there will be a facilitated discussion about the content and the impacts.

Neoclassicism: Art, ideas, and influence

Publishing 101

Are you an aspiring author, or eager to know more about the publishing world? Join us for an insightful panel discussion with industry experts. Matt Casbourne (Head of Sales), Kasim Ali (commissioning editor and author), and Amandeep Singh (literary agent) will discuss finding representation, getting published, and reaching readers.

The session will conclude with a Q&A chaired by S E Lynes, bestselling author, and experienced creative writing tutor.

Alternative publishing

Discover the many ways writers are finding readers and building successful careers.

Ruth Tross (Executive Publisher), Chris Wold (Partnerships Director), and Jane Davis (self-published author) will discuss routes to publication, including digital-first, independent, and author-led publishing.

The session will conclude with a Q&A chaired by Emily Glenister, Director of DHH Literary Agency.

Little dancers, big fun!

A joyful, 45-minute introduction to ballet-inspired movement designed just for children aged 3-5 and their families. Through gentle stretches, playful steps, and imaginative movement, little dancers will build confidence, creativity, and self-expression – all in the warm, welcoming setting of your local library.

This special session is led by Dr Sandie Bourne, founder of the Black British Ballet Project.

Meet BorrowBox

Discover how easy it is to use BorrowBox, the library’s free app for eBooks and eAudiobooks. Browse and borrow bestselling books and audiobooks, then enjoy them on your phone or tablet.

This friendly drop-in session will show you how to get started with BorrowBox and answer any questions you may have, whether you're new to the app or need a refresher.

Lido Land

Tom Fort talks about his new book which takes a fascinating journey through Britain’s lidos, exploring their history, colourful characters, and enduring place in community life. From Welsh mining towns to famous seaside resorts, Tom uncovers how these outdoor pools have reflected social change, inspired local pride, and created cherished memories.

Tom Fort is the author of the publishing hit travelogue, The A303: Highway to the Sun that became a two-part BBC documentary. His odyssey to rediscover the spirit of the English southern coast from Essex to Land's End - Channel Shore, was a BBC R4 Book of the Week.

A book signing follows this event in partnership with Hewson Books, The Kew Bookshop.

Artificial intelligence explained

Whether you've heard the buzz or are just wondering what artificial intelligence is all about, this session is for you.

What to expect:

A simple, jargon-free explanation of what AI is and how it works

Try different AI tools yourself in a fun, supportive environment

Friendly guidance every step of the way—no pressure, no experience required

On Thin Ice

Charlie Walker is an award-winning explorer, author and speaker who has travelled across some of the world's most challenging landscapes.

On Thin Ice is his gripping true story of his trek across Siberia’s frozen rivers to meet indigenous communities and learn about life in one of the world’s most remote regions. But when Russia invaded Ukraine, his journey took a dramatic turn. On Thin Ice was featured as a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week.

A book signing follows this event, with Hewson Books, The Kew Bookshop.

Dementia Friendly Film Screening

Put a smile on your face at this relaxed and accessible showing of 1952 classic musical, Singin’ in the Rain. Aimed at people living with dementia and those who care for and support them, this showing will have the lights up, offer a relaxed atmosphere and be stewarded by our friendly staff and volunteers.

Online books for beginners

We'll guide you through the process step by step, explain how the apps work, and help you get started on your own device. Support will be available throughout, and no previous experience is needed.

Bring your library card and a phone, tablet, or e-reader if you have one. No device? No problem! Come along anyway and we'll be happy to help.

Halloween costume swap

Do you have costumes that your child has grown out of? Reluctant to spend money on an outfit that will only be worn once? The week before Halloween we will be helping all witches, ghouls, and princesses to find their perfect look without resorting to fast fashion or eyeholes in an old bed sheet.

Citizen Science

Fancy becoming a scientist for the afternoon? Join this guided walk with a local scientist and get hands-on investigating the air around you using real citizen science techniques.

 
Back at the library, get creative! Make your own artwork (or add to our group piece) inspired by what you’ve discovered – think air pollution, future visions, or anything the walk sparks in you.

Grab the whole family and come along. Suitable for all ages.

The secret world beneath our feet

Discover the amazing role healthy soil and trees play in fighting climate change. In this fun, hands-on session, children will explore living soil, meet fascinating minibeasts like earthworms and woodlice, and learn how even the smallest creatures can make a big difference to our world.

Suitable for children aged 5+. Parents and carers must accompany children to ensure their safe enjoyment of the event.

Digital drop-in tour

Truth in 10

Using slides developed by former US vice president Al Gore, the Truth in 10 is a profoundly motivating science-based talk. You'll learn facts about the local and global impacts of climate change, as well as what you can do to help create a better future for our planet.

Get swishing with a clothing swap

Swishing is so simple. Just bring in your unwanted clothing garments* for children or adults and exchange them for tokens; then come back later to choose alternative items to take home and enjoy.

Drop off between 11.30am - 1.00pm. 
Choose items between 2.00pm - 3.30pm.

*All donated items must be in good condition with no more than ten unwanted items per person.