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/
Delicious news, dear friends. As of February 8, 2025, The TriniTea and Cakes will now be resident in Sydenham Library on every single Saturday!
There will be tea. There will be cakes, of course. There may also be cookies, biscuits, pastries, patties, pholourie, channa, sausage rolls, coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks and more, more, more… all fresh, all delightful, all reasonably priced.
The TriniTea and Cakes will be here every Saturday, 10am until 3pm, except when the library is closed – please do check around holiday times, etc.
@thetriniteaandcakes
The TriniTea and Cakes offers a delightful selection of cakes, pastries, buns, and traybakes, each made with care and passion. From classic flavours to unique creations, every treat is crafted to bring joy with every bite.
The TriniTea and Cakes serves a variety of hot and cold beverages, providing the perfect complement to any sweet indulgence. Whether it’s a comforting cup of tea or a refreshing iced drink, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
With a focus on high-quality ingredients, community connections, and delicious flavours, The TriniTea and Cakes is more than just a bakery—it’s a place where great food and friendly service come together. Whether stopping by for a quick treat or selecting a variety of favourites, every visit promises something special.
Visit the link on our website to find out more:
https://calicolibraries.com/trinitea-and-cakes/
Every Saturday at Sydenham Library, the Knit & Natter circle comes together to knit (or crochet, sew, stitch, embroider…) and also, and much more importantly, to natter.
Led by Wendy, this is a friendly group of like-minded crafty souls, and a fixture in the library’s week. Bring your own projects along and get some advance, admire other people’s handiwork, and swap tips and stories.
Knit & Natter is free and there is no need to book. However spaces at the library are extremely limited at the moment, so it may be worth calling ahead on 020 8778 1753.
Knit & Natter run a second weekly session at Ignition Brewery from 2-4pm on a Thursday, which currently has more spaces available.
Knit & Natter runs every Saturday except when the library is closed – please do check around holiday times, etc.
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
Join Anita for songs and stories at our Rhyme Time Session for ages 5 & Under!
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/
