Last updated: 27 February 2025
Next review: 27 February 2026
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Waltham Forest's Libraries contain over six million books, eBooks and eAudiobooks.
Libraries have huge amounts of information and reference materials including:
- family history research tools
- business and legal resources
- newspapers
- magazines
- eMagazines
All libraries have free Wi-Fi and PC computer use for any residents and non-residents.
In addition, residents can access online courses, including language lessons, driving theory test preparation and computer skills lessons.
Family Hubs
The Family Hubs programme provides a wide range of information, activities and services in your local area including health, learning and play activities, childcare, family support, employment support, housing advice, money and benefits advice and much more.
We know that all families need support from time to time to look after their wellbeing and help their babies and children thrive.
Services provided at Walthamstow Library as part of the Family Hubs programme are in partnership with:
- Lloyd Park Children’s Charity (LPCC)
- HENRY
- Tower Hamlets Care Group
- Northeast London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT)
Best Start in Life
Family Hubs activities for children aged 0 to 5 are part of Best Start in Life, a government-funded programme supporting Waltham Forest's parents and carers with their children’s growth.
You can find Best Start in Life services in all four Family Hubs and other community spaces throughout every neighbourhood in the borough.
The following provision can be found at Walthamstow Library:
- Play and learning activities
- Story and Rhymes (Tuesday and Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
- Stay and Play (Morning and afternoon)
- Kids' Crafts (Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday)
- We Are Friends
- Film Club
- Little Ballers
- Health and wellbeing support
- Baby Feeding Circle
- Family support
- Community Drop-in
Referral and eligibility
No referral required.
Languages
Occasionally, check individual events.
Diverse Voices Creative Youth Programme
Diverse Voices
Diverse Voices is drawing on its 15 years of experience working with young people to launch a Waltham-Forest based creative hub for 11-16 year olds who are passionate about drama, film & theatre. Participants will gain hands-on experience in disciplines such as acting, directing, cinematography, and more, culminating in youth-led productions that tackle real community issues. This programme will run for 24 weeks from March 2025.
- Class 1: Saturdays 1:30pm - 2 hour class for Years 6 to 8
- Class 2: Saturdays 4pm - 2 hour class for Years 9 to 11
Programme Details
- Term 1: Skills Training - developing acting ability whilst building transferable skills that will enhance young people’s confidence, communication, teamwork, self-expression and creativity.
- Term 2: Devising & Industry Masterclasses - using the skills acquired to devise an original short film addressing a relevant topic of the young people’s choice, paired with masterclasses from professionals sharing their industry experience.
Spaces are free of charge but in high demand as they are limited so apply as soon as you can – participants will be selected through an audition process. To book an audition place for your child or find out more please email dvss@diversevoices.co.uk or visit the Diverse Voices website
Let's Get Digital Drop-in at Walthamstow Library
We are running free drop-in sessions for residents to get help with the basics of using their devices and the internet.
The sessions will be delivered by our friendly digital champion volunteers.
Referral and eligibility
- No referral required
- Open to all
- Just turn up
Sessions
Fridays from 2pm to 4pm
IT Support Session at Walthamstow Library
You’re welcome to visit any Waltham Forest Library to receive guidance in accessing council services online at any time.
If you require dedicated help, our library team will be happy to welcome you to one of our free drop-in sessions.
Referral and eligibility
- No referral required
- Open to all
- Just turn up
Sessions
Wednesdays from 3pm to 4pm