Explore York Libraries and Archives

16/10/2026

Save the date for Explore's Christmas Fairs! ✨❄️

Looking for unique gifts, local makers and plenty of festive cheer?

Join us at one of our Christmas events this November and December.

🎄Saturday 14 November | 10am - 4pm | York Explore Library and Archive

🎄Saturday 28 November | 10am - 3pm | Clifton Library

🎄Saturday 5 December | 10am - 2pm | Explore: Acomb Library Learning Centre

🎄Saturday 12 December | 9am - 3pm | Tang Hall Explore Library

🎄Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December | 10am - 3pm | Santa's Grotto at Rowntree Park Reading Café

More details coming soon!

15/10/2026

Earlier this year, we invited young people to help shape the future of Explore libraries. They shared what they want from their libraries and helped us choose a brand-new range of books for our teen collection.

When we asked them to describe libraries in one word, their answers painted a picture of spaces that are welcoming, relaxing, imaginative and full of possibilities.

Here's what they had to say 📢

Not a library member yet? Join for free at your local Explore library or on our website. The link is in the comments below 👇

13/10/2026

We had a blast at last weeks Creative Cafe workshop (with lots of tea and cake!) It was the first of six artistic workshops inspired by the Explore York Archive collections on print making in York.

The first session explored some of York's early printers, including Grace White, Thomas Gent and Ann Ward. Looking at newspaper headers, illustrations and decorative lettering from the 18th century, participants took inspiration from the collections to design and carve their own lino-cut alphabets and typefaces.

It was fascinating to see how historic printing styles influenced such a wide range of creative responses, and we're looking forward to seeing the project develop over the coming weeks.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our lovely artists Katie Matthews and Gracie Richmond. We can't wait for the next session! 🎨

12/10/2026

There's still time to listen to Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy on BorrowBox 🌊📖

We've secured 500 eAudiobook copies, so you can start listening straight away with no waiting list.

Set on a remote island as a storm closes in, Wild Dark Shore is an atmospheric, suspenseful story full of mystery, emotion and unexpected twists.

Whether you're listening on your commute, out for a walk or alongside friends and family, now's the perfect time to give it a try.

Available on BorrowBox until 29 October. Simply download the app and sign in with your library card to get started 📱

12/10/2026

We can't think of a better way to spend a crisp autumn day than with a hot chocolate, a delicious scone and a view of Rowntree Park ☕🍂

12/10/2026

This sounds great!

We're so excited for this one! Booking now open for 'BAGS OF LIFE' Portraits by Mik Artistik.

For more than 30 years, Mik Artstik has been creating biro portraits on brown paper bags, capturing everyone from pop stars to pub regulars.

Join the musician, artist and performer here at York Explore Library and Archive as he shares stories from his Bags of Life project, alongside live music and readings.

Friday 6 November, 3pm-4pm, York Explore Library and Archive
🎟 Booking required | £7.50 | Follow the link in the comments below to book.

12/10/2026

As part of Get Online Week, staff from York Medical Group will be joining us at Explore libraries across York to help you access digital health services, including the NHS App, Klinik, and other online tools.

Whether you're looking to book appointments online, access health information, or build your confidence using digital services, they'll be on hand to answer your questions and offer support.

📍 York Explore
📅 20 October
🕤 9.30am to 11am

📍 Acomb Explore
📅 21 October
🕙 10am to 12pm

📍 Clifton Explore
📅 22 October
🕙 10am to 12pm

We'd love to see you there!

10/10/2026

This World Mental Health Day, we're celebrating the importance of welcoming spaces where people can feel comfortable, connected and supported.

Earlier this year, young people told us that feeling safe and welcome matters. They wanted places where they could relax, spend time with friends, study and simply be themselves.

At Explore, we're proud to provide free spaces for people of all ages to read, learn, create and connect.

As part of the campaign, why not take 10 minutes today to read a few pages, listen to an audiobook, or discover something new at your local library?

08/10/2026

Head over to Dringhouses Library today to see the Battle of Stamford Bridge tapestry!

08/10/2026

We're still thinking about the wonderful poetry shared at last week's Finding the Words Live event ✨

Whether you joined us on the night or missed out, we're delighted to announce our next online Finding the Words event, featuring Becca Drake, Andy Nuttall and Tom Weir.

📅 Thursday 19 November 2026
⏰ 7pm to 8pm
💻 Online

Join us for an evening of poetry and community with readings from three talented poets.

Follow the link in the comments below to book your free place.