Black History Month in Wandsworth Libraries

This October, Wandsworth Libraries and Better Libraries invite you to join us for Black History Month 2026, celebrating the theme "Honouring Our Communities." 

This year's programme shines a light on the people whose everyday actions make a real difference. From educators and healthcare professionals to volunteers, creatives and community champions, we recognise the individuals whose dedication, leadership and support help strengthen communities across Wandsworth and beyond. 

Through a programme of talks, workshops, exhibitions, performances and family activities, we will explore Black history, culture and achievement while celebrating the diverse voices and experiences that enrich our borough. Together, we will reflect on the past, celebrate the present and recognise those whose contributions continue to shape the future. 

Join us throughout October as we honour the stories, achievements and community spirit that are at the heart of British life.

Tuesday 6 October
1-3.30pm York Gardens Library
Know Your Numbers & Cardiovascular Health
Practical checks including blood pressure, pulse, weight and BMI, helping people understand their numbers and why they matter. Please speak to library staff for more information or email Yorkgardens.library@gll.org

Wednesday 7
5-7pm Wandsworth Town
From Stepney to London
Join author Ilena Newby for this talk about her book From Stepney to London, in which she shares her personal journey of leaving Jamaica at the age of eleven to join her parents and family members in the UK.  To book please speak to library staff or email Wandsworthtown.library@gll.org
6.30-7.30pm Putney Library
Threads of Time Exhibition
Talk with Sylvia Chin about her art exhibition. It tells the deeply personal story of five roots that run through her blood: the warm golden sun of Jamaica, the grace and ancestral wisdom of China, the vibrant, living heritage of Africa, the enduring history of Scotland, and the soft, welcoming home of Britain. These five worlds meet in every piece she creates —as one, woven together with love.  To book please speak to library staff or email Putney.library@gll.org 

Thursday 8
4pm Tooting Library 

Stories and Craft
A themed story session and craft activity.

Tuesday 13
1-3.30pm York Gardens Library
Diabetes Awareness
Understanding risk factors, prevention, healthy living and the importance of taking early action. Please speak to library staff for more information or email Yorkgardens.library@gll.org

Thursday 15
9.30-10am Northcote Library
Story Time
October is Black History Month so join us for a special story time celebrating Black authors and stories.

Saturday 17
12-1pm Northcote Library
Children’s Craft Club
Join us for a collage craft inspired by Luna Loves Library Day by Wandsworth based author Joseph Coelho for Black History Month

Monday 19
6-7pm Balham Library
Telling Your Own Stories
Dr. McClymont will speak about the importance of telling our own stories, why representation in publishing matters, the importance of acknowledging our 'history makers', and her journey as a writer. Please speak to library staff to book or email to Balham.library@gll.org

Tuesday 20
1-3.30pm York Gardens Library
Exercise and Healthy Living
A practical session with a physiotherapist on site, offering simple and accessible exercises, advice and the opportunity to ask questions about movement, mobility and staying active. Please speak to library staff for more information or email Yorkgardens.library@gll.org

Friday 23
6.30-9.30pm York Gardens Library
How Play Builds Community 

Join Harieth Sedrick-Ugo , Fay Greaves, Jahdia Spencer, Amber Ogunsanya‑William, Johnathon Miller-McCall, and Gabriel Palmer for this panel discussion. Please speak to library staff for more information or email Yorkgardens.library@gll.org

Sunday 25
2-4pm Putney Library
Tales & Drums: African Heritage Through Story & Rhythm
Join children’s author and storyteller Kamapala Chukwuka, alongside guest storytellers and a live drummer, for a joyful Black History Month celebration filled with stories, rhythm, music, movement and culture. Families will journey through African-inspired storytelling, traditional rhythms, call-and-response, dancing and plenty of audience participation, while celebrating the richness of African heritage and the beautiful tradition of communities coming together through stories and song. A fun, interactive cultural experience for children and families — come ready to listen, laugh, move, drum and celebrate together! A free family event - Book at Putney library.

Monday 26
2pm Earlsfield Library
Honouring Our Community - Design Your Own Card
Join Nichola McGuire to create your own piece of art celebrating your community, people, and their achievements. Draw straight onto a greeting card to take home and gift, or create a larger piece on A4 paper. Try out pens, pencils, charcoal, watercolour and collage, all provided. No art experience needed, just bring yourself. For adults and children aged 8+. Please speak to library staff to book or email Earlsfield.library@gll.org
6-8pm Battersea Library
Future Groove
Future Groove is a London based rare groove psychedelic jazz funk force to be reckoned with fronted by the rare vocal talent of Helen McDonald. To book, please speak to library staff or email Battersea.library@gll.org 

Tuesday 27
9.30-10.30am, Southfields Children’s Library
Black History Month Storytime and Craft Session
Join us for a special session celebrating Black History Month. Enjoy stories and crafting.  (Ages 3+)
11.30am-12.30pm Wandsworth Town Library
The best Jollof rice ever
Join children's book author Onyinye Iwu for the story of Kamsi and Kwame. They are best friends and their favourite food is jollof rice!
1-3pm York Gardens Library
Cancer Awareness and Screening
Raising awareness of signs and symptoms and the importance of screening, including breast, cervical, bowel and prostate health. Please speak to library staff for more information or email Yorkgardens.library@gll.org

Wednesday 28
10.30am-12.30pm York Gardens Library
Black History Month Business Champion Breakfast
Join Loretta Awuah to celebrate Local Business and Community Champions over Breakfast alongside inspiring talks. Please speak to library staff for more information or email Yorkgardens.library@gll.org

Friday 30
2.30-4.30pm Southfields Library
Once Upon a Culture, Black History Month Culture Quest
Join CulturEDI for a fun, interactive cultural learning experience for children and families. Discover African folklore, explore culture and community and find the stories within us.
5-6.30pm Wandsworth Town Library
Honouring Our Communities Panel Discussion
Join Victoria  Asante and the Women In Business Network for a time of reflection, appreciation, recognition. To book please speak to library staff or email Wandsworthtown.library@gll.org