Calico Libraries invites writers from across the borough and beyond to enter its inaugural writing competition!
We’re seeking short works of fiction (1,500 words or fewer) responding to the theme Imagined Worlds. Whether your story explores a reimagined reality, a speculative future, or an entirely original landscape, we’re looking for creative and distinctive interpretations of the theme.
Winning and highly commended entries will be published both in print and online, and will each receive a contributor copy of the physical pamphlet.
Submissions are open from 1st November until 31st December!
For submission guidelines and to submit your work, please visit calicoprojects.com/calico-creative-writing-competition/
Calling all GCSE and A Level art students!
Sydenham Library is delighted to offer a programme of free classes with our artist in residence, Anna Arianova. You’ll be covering a broad range of techniques, materials and subjects: pencils, pastels, oil paints; portrait and still life.
Anna has been living, working, exhibiting and teaching in south-east London for the past 20 years. Through her career she has explored a wide range of styles and techniques, but her main focus remains on representing reality through visual art in ways that evoke emotion. She believes that art can help us understand ourselves more deeply and connect meaningfully with the world around us. A strong believer in the power of libraries as spaces for connection and creativity, Anna is excited to share her passion for art through these regular sessions.
Classes will be held on Monday evenings at Sydenham Library, 5-6pm, in term time only. Classes are free and all materials will be provided, but advance booking is required: see Ticket Tailor (https://www.tickettailor.com/events/calico/1826930) to reserve your place. If you have any questions, please email sydenham@calicolibraries.com.
A group session suitable for all levels.Iyengar Yoga is taught using props (blocks, bricks, belts, chairs, walls..) enabling everyone to get the most out of the practice. Focus is on correct alignment of the body to gain stability, flexibility, and freedom in body and mind.£15 drop in£10 onlineBOOK HERE: https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19341112
All at sea in the digital world? Tangled up in the world wide web? Broken down on the hard shoulder of the information superhighway?
Catbytes Digital Community are here to help! Every Saturday from 10 to 12, we’ll have a table set aside for a drop-in clinic with a friendly expert. Whether you’re trying to complete an online form or use your personal devices, struggling with a website or confused about app permissions, come on by and we’ll take a look.
No need to book a space, no charge – just turn up with your problem and any devices you might need help with. You can access the internet through the library computers if necessary.
Our book writing club encourages primary school age children to write and develop their storytelling, spelling and handwriting skills. We also design book covers and cards, and read out loud together to develop speech and confidence.
The book writing club is free to attend. Meetings are weekly during term-time only.
Please note: The book writing club is currently at capacity and is not accepting new members. However, if you are interested then you can leave a name and contact number with the library – we will contact you if places become available.
“I learnt about aspects of writing that I’d never considered before – as someone who has taken a lot of writing courses, I didn’t expect so much that was new. It was just what I needed.” – Liz BarnesFour creative writing courses, each with 6 weekly 2-hour classes. Sessions feature author excerpts, 20–25 minute writing exercises, discussion, and time to share work. Writers with or without current projects will benefit. Weekly homework set. Suitable for prose writers and poets alike.Authors include Kei Miller, Tim Winton, Margaret Atwood, Jeanette Winterson, Andrea Levy, Helen MacDonald, Jo Shapcott, Tim O’Brien, Tracey Emin, and more.
Course 1: Creative Writing Essentials – fantasy, imagery, dialogue, theme & voice.Course 2: Character & Fiction – characterisation, backstory, structure, setting.Courses 3 & 4: Tailored Topics – chosen by the group, such as memoir, poetry, suspense, endings, and more.£135 per course. Some concessions available.Book here:https://beccaleathlean.co.uk/product/course-3/ (https://beccaleathlean.co.uk/product/course-3/)https://beccaleathlean.co.uk/
Therapeutic yoga classes – accessible to all. Cathy offers the full range of yoga techniques- posture,pranayama ( breathing practices), mantra , mudra and yoga nidra.All equipment provided.6 classes for £80 FREE TRIAL CLASSOr £15 drop in ( if there are spaces )This includes access to zoom classes in addition to live classes.Thursday mornings9.30 – 11amTerm time onlyTo book your space please contact cathynewsam@googlemail.com
Therapeutic yoga classes – accessible to all. Cathy offers the full range of yoga techniques- posture,pranayama ( breathing practices), mantra , mudra and yoga nidra.All equipment provided.6 classes for £80 FREE TRIAL CLASSOr £15 drop in ( if there are spaces )This includes access to zoom classes in addition to live classes.Thursday mornings9.30 – 11amTerm time onlyTo book your space please contact cathynewsam@googlemail.com