Hello, hope you are all enjoying the heat and not struggling with it. We are a registered cool place (although it can get a little hot under our beautiful dome!). We are also now a re-fill centre so if you ever need to top up your water please pay us a visit! July is a jam packed with lots of little activities, a big event, ‘Corbfest 2025’ and the start of the summer reading challenge. Please read on to find out more and we hope to see you at Corbfest on 12th July…

Rachel, Ruth and all the CCL Team

CORBFEST 2025

We would be stoked if you would help support us by attending Corbfest 2025! This annual festival is a fundraiser for us, Abbotshall HLC and St Andrews Church. We were lucky enough to find a sponsor, Integra Estates and we also have the support of Torridon Convenience Store who are taking part this year! At this community event expect arts and craft stalls, food and drink, face-painting, interactive family games, ice-cream van (which will be parked on Angel Auto’s forecourt) and live music from local artists. At St Andrews Church there is a chance to cuddle a Pomeranian dog - this may sound a bit different, and it is… They are super cute and fluffy and are sure to put a big smile on your face! Also another chance to see ‘Another Catford’ documentary by Ben Honeybone - which sold out at the Fellowship Inn earlier this year. Abbotshall will have lots of family fun on Sunday with stalls, games, bouncy castle and live performances. We really hope you can join us!

Please note: due to this event there will be no library service on Sat 12th only returns and printing.

Gallery SE6 New Exhibition - 10th July 6-8pm

This month we say goodbye to Ewelina Szymanska and welcome Kate Emblen for the July Gallery SE6 art exhibition. Her free official opening, including a bar, is on Thursday 10th July 6-8pm, and everyone is welcome to attend!

Summer Reading Challenges

Starting on Saturday 5 July, we have two summer reading challenges!

Grow Your Imagination with the Story Garden Summer Reading Challenge! This summer, The Reading Agency invites children 11 and under to step into the magical world of Story Garden, the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge theme. With stunning artwork by illustrator Dapo Adeola, children will uncover stories that celebrate the great outdoors and the power of imagination. Participants can discover new books, earn rewards, and enjoy nature-inspired events and activities.

For adults and teenagers over the age of 11, we have a reading challenge especially for you! Pick up a bookmark and get it stamped by our volunteers for each book you read. When you reach six books you’ll receive a prize, and be entered into our prize draw to win something even better!

Both challenges are free to enter. Sign up to either inside the library from 5th July until the end of the challenges on 21st September (children) or 30th September (adults and teens)!

Volunteer interview: Kay

Kay

Why did you decide to volunteer here?  I was working up until the pandemic and retired then. I went to the original meeting when Julie and Peter said they’d try and keep the library open – I always volunteered on and off and could do it more regularly when I retired. I also wanted to contribute and learn skills. It was perfect! I’ve always worked with the public, especially kids.

What’s your favourite thing about volunteering here? I like working with Duke of Edinburgh and Work Experience students. I also like the feeling of achievement that I’ve learned to do something by myself – it’s a nice feeling. There’s a nice atmosphere and users, and it’s nice to help people and for people to feel welcome.

Can you sum up the library in three words? Very nice, welcoming atmosphere; management are approachable and helpful but not micromanaging volunteers, and there is a sense of community

Why would you recommend the library? Volunteering here helps people improve their experience, confidence, and skills. Volunteers get as much out of the library as users do. There’s a lot of flexibility, with no pressure to do everything if you don’t want to.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Infant feeding specialist

As part of Wellness Wednesdays we are hoping to run weekly 1:2:1 sessions with an IBCLC / postnatal counsellor  (£25 per session). Supporting all those on their infant feeding journey, whatever the stage, age or feeding method.  Booking in advance required via [email protected]

For more information attend her drop in Q&A session Wednesday 2nd July 6-7pm under the dome.

Catbytes - IT Drop In Support

Catbytes are in every Saturday from 11-1pm, for any help you need with your technology or form filling. It’s a free drop in session, just turn up, no need to book.

SAVE THE DATE

1st July Self Publishing Talk with Author Allison Parkinson 9.30 - 11

10 July Catford SE6 exhibition opening: Kate Emblen 6-8pm

13 July Soundbath 7-8pm

26 July Jackynory

JULY TIMETABLE