We kicked off the festive season last Saturday with our Christmas Fair — and we were absolutely delighted with the turnout! A massive thank you to everyone who attended, hosted a stall, or volunteered. You all helped make the event truly special. Despite the rain, we welcomed at least 550 visitors, and the atmosphere was wonderful from start to finish.

A special thanks goes to the Corbett Quartet, who set the tone for the day with 45 minutes of beautiful clarinet music, and to the Catford Community Choir, who sang us out in style just before the raffle.

Events like this remind us how much local talent we’re surrounded by — makers, bakers and creators whose work brings such colour to our community. It’s a perfect excuse to shop local, support small businesses, and celebrate the spirit of the season together.

And the best part? We raised lots of money for the library! 😃

We’ve got plenty more lined up over the next three weeks, so please read on…

Please note, we will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period from Wednesday 24 December until Friday 2 January inclusive. Your nearest library during this time will be Catford Library, which is open as normal except for the bank holidays.

Focusing again on our wonderful local talent, we’re delighted to invite you to our Christmas Cabaret! This special event is brought to you by members of Artform, a local performing arts group who have hosted several fantastic musical evenings with us in previous years.

They’ve gathered a host of talented performers from across the estate to create a magical night filled with singing, stories, music, sparkle — and even a little magic. There will be a licensed bar, and your ticket includes a complimentary glass of mulled wine to help keep the festive spirit flowing.

We’ll round off the evening with carols for everyone to join in, guaranteed to leave you feeling warm, merry, and fully ready for the big day!

Book tickets here, or pop into the library.

On 6 December, Susan Elkin will be hosting the launch of her new book Unheard Voices: Tales from the Margins of Literature. She’ll be reading excerpts, sharing insights into her work, and signing copies.

Join us for this free event and enjoy an afternoon with an excellent — and wonderfully local — author!

‘Who Am I’ is a series of abstract works by Emily Brand, exploring the rollercoaster of emotions experienced during perimenopause. But this event isn’t just for women of a certain age — it’s a chance for everyone to enjoy an evening of art created by an artist who grew up on the Corbett, along with a pop-up bar and festive treats. Enjoy a night of culture and drinks right on your doorstep!

We’ll also be hosting pop-up stalls from Neal’s Yard Remedies with @shea_naturally and Reflexology with @karen_taylor_therapies.

For more information, visit @gallerySE6.

On 13th December, Ting will be running another Watercolour Workshop, this time making festive cards! Relax and create something unique for friends and family, or just for yourself. All experience welcome, from complete beginners to expert painters. £30, all materials included - just bring yourself (and an apron or clothes you don’t mind getting a bit messy). Book here

Step into a world of wonder and visit Father Christmas in his enchanted library! Wander through shelves of shimmering stories and twinkling tales, share your Christmas wishes with the man in red himself, and receive a special gift.

Each child will enjoy a 5-minute magical meeting, and when you book a half-hour slot, Father Christmas will welcome you at some point during that window. Arrive at the start of your slot — elves will be on hand with festive crafts to keep little ones happily busy while they wait.

Children are welcome to visit Father Christmas together, but please remember that each child needs their own booking so that Father Christmas can prepare their gifts.

Slots are £5 per child. Book here or pop into the library.

Join Jacky, who will be hosting a special Christmas-themed edition of Jackynory! Start Christmas week in the most magical way with festive stories, treats, cheerful songs, and creative crafts in this joyful intergenerational event. A perfect way for families to come together, share the magic, and celebrate the season! FREE

Why did you decide to volunteer here?  To keep myself busy, as I’m unemployed.

What’s your favourite thing about volunteering here? Looking at the books.

Can you sum up the library in three words?  Community-friendly, family-friendly, guarantee of future generations’ intellectual prosperity

Why would you recommend the library? Yes I would recommend it, some people love reading.

• 6th December 2-2.30pm: Susan Elkin author event

• 7th December 10am-4pm: K&F Christmas Culture Market

• 11th December 6-9pm: Gallery SE6 opening - Emily Brand

• 13th December 10am-1pm: Dora’s Sourdough

• 13th December 10:30am-12:30pm: Watercolour Workshop with Ting

• 14th December 6-9pm: Have Yourself A Merry Little Cabaret

• 15th, 16th, & 18th December 1.30-5.30pm: Santa’s Grotto

• 20th December 10-1pm: Santa’s Grotto

• 20th December 11.15am-12.15pm: Jackynory (Christmas Special)

• 21st December 5-6pm: Soundbath