Southend Libraries services for 0 to 5s - Childrens activities

Southend Libraries offers a wide range of services to support children aged 0 to 5 and their families, helping to foster a love of books, stories and rhymes from birth.

What we offer

free library membership from birth
borrow books and audiobooks from any of Southend's six libraries
free access to eBooks and eAudiobooks through BorrowBox
free or low-cost activities, events and reading challenges across all libraries
support for parents and carers to share books, stories and rhymes with their children from birth
free Bookstart packs and books including SEND packs. Packs are gifted through health visitors, Specialist Teaching Service and other gifting partners. Please contact bookstart@southend.gov.uk for more information

Library membership and borrowing

No child is too young to have a library card, and membership is completely free. To join, visit your local Southend Library and bring proof of address. Digital copies are accepted.

Children can:

borrow up to 14 physical items at a time
keep items for up to three weeks
enjoy fine-free borrowing on children's books
return books to any Southend Libraries branch

Collections for young children

Your local library offers a wide range of resources, including:

board books for babies and toddlers
picture books
phonics and "Learning to Read" books
non-fiction books for young learners
situation Books to help children understand different experiences, life events and emotions
a Dual Language Collection with books available in 49 community languages
Southend Storysacks providing a fun and interactive way to enjoy stories together
Let's Get Ready for School Bags, featuring storybooks about starting school and practical tips to support a smooth transition into Reception
parenting books covering child development, sleep, feeding, health and early learning

Activities and events

Weekly Storyrhymes

Free 30-minute sessions where families can enjoy songs, rhymes, musical instruments and stories together. Storyrhymes take place at all Southend Libraries and are bookable sessions.

Relaxed Saturday Storyrhymes

Held on the last Saturday of each month at Westcliff Library, these sessions provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for children and their families. No booking required.

Summer Reading Challenge

An annual reading challenge, including a mini challenge designed especially for children under four.

Little Story Stars Reading Incentive

Encourages regular reading and library visits through the collection of stickers and a completion certificate.

Craft events and clubs

Creative activities for children aged four and over.

Brick Building Club

Encourages creativity, problem-solving and imaginative play through building activities.

BookTrust Storytime

A five-week national programme held at Westcliff Library and Shoebury Library each spring. Families with children aged 0 to 5 are invited to enjoy specially selected stories, songs and themed activities.

For further information please contact bookstart@southend.gov.uk

Phone numbers for all 6 libraries in Southend-on-Sea can be found by clicking the links on this page.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthendBookstart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southendlibraries
Southend Libraries webpages: https://www.southend.gov.uk/libraries
BookTrust: https://www.booktrust.org.uk

Locations and contact details for the 6 libraries in Southend-on-Sea.

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