Art Club | The Art and Soul Sessions with Faye Dobinson
2025-02-26 10:30 - 12:30, 2025-03-19 10:30 - 12:30, 2025-04-02 10:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London) | Morrab Library
Join artist Faye Dobinson for these weekly sessions centring creative play, experimentation and discovery. Fuelled by humour, enthusiasm, curiosity and love, and taking place in the magical Morrab Library,
Sessions last 2 hours from 10.30am-12.30pm, cost £15 with ALL materials included and all levels are welcome.
Booking link here.

Going to Ground: an evening with Philip Marsden and Tim Hannigan
2025-02-26 19:30 - 21:00 | The Acorn Theatre
at the Acorn Theatre, Wednesday 26th February 2025, 7:30 pm
Join authors and two great friends of the library, Philip Marsden and Tim Hannigan in conversation as they celebrate Philip’s new book, Under a Metal Sky. They will talk about the cultures of Cornwall and Ireland, the interplay of nature and mythology, and Tim’s current travel book project.
The Morrab Library is delighted to be hosting this event, and proceeds from ticket sales will support the ongoing care and preservation of our special place.
Library Patron Philip Marsden is an acclaimed author of history and travel literature, having written books like The Crossing Place and Rising Ground, which explore themes from global journeys to local Cornish landscapes. His new work, Under a Metal Sky delves into mining histories in Cornwall and ends in the Caucasus, examining humanity’s uneasy relationship with natural resources.
Tim Hannigan, a Cornish writer with a background in journalism, has authored books on Indonesian history and Cornish culture, including The Granite Kingdom. He divides his time between Cornwall and Ireland, where he teaches, and is currently working on a new book about a 500-mile walk across Ireland that explores historical access to the countryside.
Tickets to what will be a fascinating evening are now available exclusively through the Acorn Theatre. Use this link to buy tickets, or drop by their box office to purchase them. Tickets will be sold on a Pay What You Can basis, between £10 – £18, with student tickets just £5.
Buy tickets here.
Our friends from the Edge of the World Bookshop will be selling copies of Philip’s and Tim’s books in the Acorn bar at the event.
We hope you can join us, and enjoy what will be a wonderful evening whilst supporting our library.

Joy of Art (Spring term) - with artist Claire Lucas
2025-02-27 10:15 - 12:30, 2025-03-13 10:15 - 12:30, 2025-03-27 10:15 - 12:30 | Morrab Library
Fortnightly art class for all levels of ability. Claire will provide inspiration and guidance for participants to explore subject matter and media best suited to their skills and character; helping them to discover (or deepen) their relationship with the artist within!
£125 for 6 sessions or £25/class if dropping in occasionally (priority is given to those who commit to coming for 6 classes)
Call Claire on 07532174802 or email clairelucasartist@yahoo.com
Claire is a practicing artist (Falmouth School of Art graduate), with over 30 years experience of teaching art in community venues and further education colleges. She specialises in providing an encouraging and safe space in which even the most fearful or lacking in confidence student can discover their joy for art, and create artworks that they are proud of!

Creative journaling with Emma Farley
2025-02-28 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Join us for a creative journaling session focused on enhancing your wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, boost creativity, or increase self-awareness, journaling offers powerful benefits. In a safe, supportive space, connect with like-minded individuals and explore mindfulness, self reflection, and planning through guided prompts and templates. This session is open to all abilities, offering a chance for self expression and personal growth at your own pace.
Bring your own notebook. All other equipment is provided, including pens, washi tape, stencils, stickers, glue, scissors, and more. Tickets are £10/person. Booking is essential. Email: e.farley27@gmail.com
Emma is a life-long stationery addict, encouraging others to explore the joys of creative journaling and modern calligraphy, whilst improving their wellbeing. She has a PGCE, plus Level 2 qualifications in Understanding Autism and Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health. She’s also a Mental Health First Aider and Health and Wellbeing Coach.
Find out more: www.instagram.com/acornishgeekletters

Free tour of The Morrab Library
2025-02-28 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-03-07 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-03-14 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-03-21 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-03-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
All are welcome to join a free guided tour of The Morrab Library every Friday at 2pm. This is an opportunity to learn more about our beautiful independent Library and the collections within.
The tour begins at 2pm, it is drop-in and there is no need to book. If you plan to bring a large group (6+ people) please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk and we will do our best to accommodate you.
For accessibility information, please click here.
We also welcome visitors to the Library at any time during our opening hours (10am – 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday) when you are welcome to pick up a map of the Library at the front desk and explore the library.

Embroider a bee and learn about our wild bees
2025-03-04 10:00 - 12:30, 2025-03-18 10:00 - 12:30, 2025-04-01 10:00 - 12:30 | Morrab Library
Vicks Harrison started the Embroidered Bees Project in 2019 to raise awareness of the loss of biodiversity. The project will create a huge art quilt to help people develop their embroidery skills and learn more about the nearly 300 kinds of bees we have in this country and. It is a long term project and it is hoped that the final artwork will be exhibited to raise donations for wildlife projects. This workshop will be an opportunity to produce embroidered bees to be added to the project. Complete beginners are very welcome. More detail about the project is contained in two videos 1) is a lovely introduction https://vimeo.com/724988781/f27d4ca421 2) is a how to video https://vimeo.com/766141264/365f9de6db Please bring a small hoop and a needle, and any embroidery threads and/or cream or white fabric that you have. Old linen napkins and tablecloths are great. This is an unfunded project but Vicks does have a few materials. If you have any embroidery thread, a needle and scissors that would be very helpful – otherwise just book and turn up Please pay what you can – we suggest £3 to £5. Places are limited and booking is essential so please email Vickyvicks@btinternet.com or text 07834287562 to book a place.

Library Talks | Cornish Feasts: Some thoughts on Cornish Food
2025-03-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
On St Piran’s Day this year we’ll be joined by Liz Woods, author of ‘Cornish Feasts and Festivals’ for a celebration of Cornish food and connections to different dishes from around the world.
The talk will be talking place in the Reading Room on Wednesday 5th March at 2pm.
Liz will be delving into the history of some traditional Cornish dishes, including the pasty and saffron buns, and will be sharing some thoughts about their origins/ Saffron buns, kindly made for us by the Rosewall Bakery, will be provided after the talk. Tickets are allocated by a ballot system.
Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 to be entered into the ballot for a ticket. The ballot closes on Tuesday 25th February.
Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support The Morrab Library (suggested £5).

‘Valuing Your Day’ Workshop | with Vicki Aimers
2025-03-12 10:00 - 12:30, 2025-03-12 13:00 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Please note that there are two sessions: 10-12.30 and 1-3.30
The theme of this workshop is ‘valuing your day’ – a chance to value yourself through moments of self-reflection and creativity.
In two half-day sessions, participants will journal and collage together, inspired by Marion Ash’s life as a governess to the Chown family in the early 1900s.
This relaxed workshop invites you to share memories and stories while creating your own journal. A simple handmade journal and most materials will be provided, but feel free to bring personal papers or collage items to make your creation uniquely yours.
Booking is essential. Tickets: £15 per person. Email Vicki (vickiaimers@btinternet.com) to book a place.
Find out about Vicki’s Artist Residency at the Library on this page.

Zines with Emma Farley
2025-03-14 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Create your own mini zine. All equipment is provided but do feel free to bring along anything that inspires you.
Booking is essential for all workshops. Email e.farley27@gmail.com.
Emma is a life-long stationery addict, encouraging others to explore the joys of creative journaling and modern calligraphy, whilst improving their wellbeing. She has a PGCE, plus Level 2 qualifications in Understanding Autism and Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health. She’s also a Mental Health First Aider and Health and Wellbeing Coach.
Find out more:
www.instagram.com/acornishgeekletters

'A Guiding Hand' | Talk and min workshop with Artist in Residence Vicki Aimers
2025-03-15 13:00 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Join Book Artist and PhD researcher Vicki Aimers for an informal talk and hands-on workshop exploring private education in Cornwall, particularly in West Cornwall, during the period when state schools were becoming more widespread. Through the fascinating story of Marion Ash, governess to the Chown family in the early 1900s, Vicki will share insights into the role of governesses, their daily lives, and the impact of private education on middle-class families.
The event will take place in the Reading Room on Saturday
15th March at 1pm.
The session will also include a summary of her ongoing PhD research and the creative work she has developed during her residency at the library. This is a unique opportunity to engage with local history, creativity, and Vicki’s artistic process
This talk and mini workshop will last 2.5 hours and will including sewing time with a mini project inspired by Vicki’s residency and research. There will be a break during the workshop for refreshments.
Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk if you would like to book a place – tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support The Morrab Library (suggested £5).
Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support The Morrab Library (suggested £5).

The Scillies and the Sea: A History with Mark Cottle
2025-03-19 14:00 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
“Always the sea rules us. We are born to its sound, and its voice is forever in our hearts.”
Mark Cottle will be returning to the Reading Room at The Morrab Library to give an illustrated talk on the history of the Isles of Scilly in relationship to the sea.
Mark is a former teacher but now a freelance lecturer with many years’ experience in lecturing. He lives in Devon, but he was born and bred on the Isles of Scilly, spending his childhood on both St Marys and Tresco. Mark is a frequent visitor to Penzance – giving illustrated talks at The Morrab Library and institutions around the world.
Tickets are allocated by a ballot system. Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 to be entered into the ballot for a ticket. The ballot closes on Monday 10th March.
Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support The Morrab Library (suggested £5).

Penzance Orchestral Society Concert at St John's Hall (with refreshments from The Morrab Library)
2025-03-22 18:00 - 19:30 | St John’s Hall, Alverton Street, Penzance, TR18 2QR
Performed by Penzance Orchestral Society
Tim Boulton (Conductor)
Emma Stansfield (Leader)
Reuben Hesser (Percussionist)
Synaesthesia – Hearing Colours
A concert of music by composers who heard and hear music in colour!
Programme includes:
Mozart: ‘Paris Symphony’ K297
Amy Beach: Bal Masque
Ben Comeau: Neon Numbers with percussion soloist Reuben Hesser
Sibelius: Symphony No 5
Tickets: £15/£10
Age 26 and under free
Running time 90mins (inc. interval)
Wheelchair accessible
Parking available at St Johns Hall and local car parks
Book your ticket here: https://www.minack.com/whats-on/synaesthesia-hearing-colours
Refreshments to support The Morrab Library

Hand stitch – fun experimental embroidery with Vicks Harrison
2025-03-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Morrab Library
Hand stitch – fun experimental embroidery with Vicks Harrison at The Morrab Library.
Tuesday 25th March – Experimental and fun embroidery into paper and card . You will be weaving some paper, making lots of holes and learning some surface embroidery stitches – its loads of fun
These workshops are £15. Check times on each workshop (on the poster below).
Workshops are suitable for people who have some basic embroidery skills. For all workshops you need to bring a small hoop and a firm piece of fabric to stick in it. Dressmaking weight scissors and if you have them needles and threads.
Please email vickyvicks@btinternet.com to book a place and for further information.

Relaxed Book Group at The Morrab Library
2025-03-25 14:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
About the group:
A friendly group for anyone who loves books but doesn’t want the pressure of a traditional book club.
Rather than reading a specific book, we share what’s on our bookshelf or simply come for tea, biscuits and company in the beautiful book-filled atmosphere of The Morrab library.
No library membership is required and there’s no compulsory reading list.
Audiobook listeners are just as welcome as traditional readers.
We explore all types of books, swap books and share recommendations. Our discussions focus on what we’re looking for in a book and whether and when, we’ve found it.
When: The last Tuesday of the month, from 2pm-3pm. The first session will take place on Tuesday 25th March
Where: The Morrab Library, Morrab Gardens, Penzance, TR18 4DA
How to book: To join the group contact Jo Buckingham by email jo.buckingham.palace@gmail.com
Suggested donation £3.
About the group leader:
Joanna Buckingham started her first relaxed book group with friends in 2019 and got the idea of starting one at Morrab Library when working as a social prescriber as a way of creating supportive communities.
She loves the camaraderie and support of doing things in groups and the immersive experience of reading. She loves reading widely across many genres.
She’s organised group events and experiences in such diverse locations as tall ships and tin mines.
Joanna has set up and supported numerous groups whilst working in the museum and adventurous activity industry and as a social prescriber.
She is a level 3 trained counsellor and knows the importance of both being a good listener and having a good book to fall back on in times of need (Cold Comfort farm by Stella Gibbons always works for her)

Art Club | Art and Soul sessions with Faye Dobinson
2025-03-26 10:30 - 12:30 | Morrab Library

Archives Open Day
2025-03-27 10:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
Come and explore our Library’s Archives
Thursday 27th March from 10am – 3pm
Join us as we once again delve into The Morrab Library’s archive collection to bring you some more of its treasures. The Archive Open Day will be held in the Reading Room between 10am-3pm on Thursday 27th March.
At this Open Day, you’ll be able to see a variety of fascinating items from our extensive paper archive collections. These include a section of a 14th century Papal Decree, beautiful bookplates designed by E.W. Oldham, an old Penzance train timetable, a 19th century map of the mining districts of West Cornwall, and much, much more.
These collections have been donated and collected over the last 200 years and this is an opportunity to get to know about the some of the important and special items we care for.
You don’t need to book, just drop in, and if you are inspired to make a donation towards the care of these incredible collections on the day, we would be very grateful.

Creative Journaling with Emma Farley
2025-03-28 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Join us for a creative journaling session focused on enhancing your wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, boost creativity, or increase self-awareness, journaling offers powerful benefits. In a safe, supportive space, connect with like-minded individuals and explore mindfulness, self reflection, and planning through guided prompts and templates. This session is open to all abilities, offering a chance for self expression and personal growth at your own pace.
Bring your own notebook. All other equipment is provided, including pens, washi tape, stencils, stickers, glue, scissors, and more. Tickets are £10/person. Booking is essential. Email: e.farley27@gmail.com.
Emma is a life-long stationery addict, encouraging others to explore the joys of creative journaling and modern calligraphy, whilst improving their wellbeing. She has a PGCE, plus Level 2 qualifications in Understanding Autism and Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health. She’s also a Mental Health First Aider and Health and Wellbeing Coach.
Find out more: www.instagram.com/acornishgeekletters

Getting Started With Your Story | Creative Writing with Peter McAllister
2025-03-29 10:00 - 12:15 | Morrab Library
A fun, productive workshop for adults that will help you get going with writing the story you’ve always wanted to.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, picking a project back up that you began some time ago or just interested in writing in general, this is an event for you in which we will explore how to:
Get going on a new writing project or continue an existing one
Come up with ideas for what to write
Build up your writing confidence and portfolio
Leverage new techniques and specialised skills
Discover and perfect your writer’s voice
Know what to look for when editing/redrafting your work.
You’ll write lots on this workshop and read anything aloud that you’d like to (no pressure if you’d rather not). Should you wish, you’ll receive positive, constructive feedback on your writing and will leave with a clearer understanding of the direction your work should take – be that something you’ve already been working on, or something you develop during this workshop
Click here to book a place at this workshop.
Click here to read more about the full writing course and future workshops. Click here to read more about Peter McAllister, The Morrab Library Writer in Residence.

About Your Tutor: Peter McAllister
Peter is a writer, educator and publisher of prose fiction. He studied English Literature at The University of Cambridge, was awarded a Distinction for his MA in Creative Writing and now lectures at the University of Hull. He is the editor and co-founder of Inkfish Magazine and a committee member for the Penzance Literary Festival.
Peter’s writing builds layers of narrative through linked pieces that result in profound moments of self-realisation or dramatic action. He has been shortlisted and highly commended in several International Literary Prizes for his short-form fiction and poetry. His work been published online, in print journals and numerous anthologies.

Library Talks | Rapture Bound (Unbound) with Janet Levy
2025-04-02 14:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
On Wednesday 2nd April (2pm) we will be welcoming Janet Levy, an American-Swiss sculptor and curator currently based in Los Angeles, to The Morrab Library to give a talk about her work.
Janet will share her influences and reference materials from Cornwall, including her previous exhibition, Rapture Bound, at Anchor Studio in Newlyn, which will be presented in her upcoming book Rapture Bound (Unbound).
Janet’s work draws from a range of influences including Barbara Hepworth’s sculptures, Ithell Colquhoun’s writings, Ian Cooke’s Mermaid to Merrymaid: Journey to the Stones and Newlyn Harbour. In this talk at the Library she’ll illuminate the connection and inspiration between her work and local stones, books, people and places.
Tickets are allocated by a ballot system. Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 to be entered into the ballot for a ticket. The ballot closes on Monday 24th March.
Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support The Morrab Library (suggested £5). Refreshments will be provided after the talk.
