The Morrab Library

Creative Journaling with Emma Farley
2024-06-07 10:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London) | Morrab Library
Friday 7 June 10.30-12.30
£10/person. Bring your own notebook. All other equipment supplied. Additional starter pack available for newbies for £5 (dot grid notebook, washi, and pen, plus prompts and templates).

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

Mixed media and collage with Emma Farley
2024-06-07 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Friday 7 June 1.30-3.30
£15/person. All equipment supplied.

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

Write your own sea-themed poems | A writing workshop for 9-12 year olds
2024-06-08 10:30 - 12:00 | Morrab Library
Mordros is Cornish for ‘sound of the sea’. It’s also a community poetry project facilitated by the Mor Poets which aims to foster the enjoyment and writing of poetry in people of all ages across Cornwall.
In June, we will be coming to The Morrab Library for two sea-inspired poetry workshops. In these workshops, aimed at children aged 9 – 12, we will bring the ocean to life using prompts to create sea-themed poems.
We will use:
❖ sea sounds and images
❖ physical sea-themed prompts eg. shells, rocks and driftwood
❖ story-telling and live poetry performance
❖ easy to use poetry templates
Let’s hear the sea, think it, feel it, touch it, and even smell it. Let’s imagine ourselves in the sea or under it, and, perhaps skimming its surface like a seagull or a surfer. Let’s use our own words to share joyful experiences and memories of the ocean through poetry.
A selection of poems from all of the workshops will be put together to create a unique Mordros poetry book, available to participants and the public later in the year.
Mordros is brought to you by Mor Poets, an all-women shoal of poets from Cornwall: Meg Chapman, Kate Barden, Abigail Ottley, Hannah Temme, Ulrike Duran, Kerry Vincent, Fi Read, Ella Walsworth-Bell, Christiana Robertson, Lauren Gauge. Mor Poets previously created two books of poetry about sea swimming and surfing – Morvoren and Mordardh.
Mordros is supported by FEAST funding and each workshop runs for 1.5 hours.
Book a free place via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mordros-sea-poetry-writing-workshop-for-9-12-year-olds-tickets-900535625297?aff=oddtdtcreator

Stoic Self-Awareness Meets Modern Mindfulness
2024-06-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Morrab Library
Join us for a transformative half-day course exploring Stoic prosoche and modern mindfulness. Delve into ancient wisdom and contemporary practice, discover the unique benefits of each, and experience guided meditations designed to enhance self-awareness and serenity. Perfect for those seeking practical tools for resilience and inner peace. Embrace the journey towards a more mindful, virtuous life.
£14 [or pay what you can afford]
Either use the link to eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stoic-self-awareness-meets-modern-mindfulness-tickets-922941872987?aff=oddtdtcreator or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

EMBROIDER A BEE: And learn about and help our wild bees
2024-06-18 13:30 - 15:30, 2024-07-02 10:00 - 12:30 | Morrab Library
This is a project to create a huge art quilt. The project aims to raise awareness of the loss of biodiversity, explore the nearly 300 kinds of bees we have in this country and help people develop their embroidery skills.
It is a long term project and it is hoped that the final artwork will be exhibited to raise donations for wildlife projects.
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 I do have a few materials. If you have any embroidery threads , a needle and scissors that would be very helpful – otherwise just book and turn up
More detail about the project is contained in two videos

is a lovely introduction https://vimeo.com/724988781/f27d4ca421
is a how to video https://vimeo.com/766141264/365f9de6db

Complete beginners are very welcome.
This is an unfunded workshop to produce bees to add to the project. Please pay what you can – we suggest £3 to £5.
Places are limited – book this workshop by email Vickyvicks@btinternet.com or text 07834287562.

Summer Fair
2024-06-22 10:00 - 14:00 | Morrab Library
Come one, come all! The Morrab Library Summer Fair

Saturday 22nd June, 10.00am – 2.00pm

Our Summer Fair will once again bring you stalls by local makers selling all kinds of wonderful wares from art to textiles. As always, we’ll have second hand books, historic photos and some plants for sale too. Our refreshments room will offer all sorts of delicious hand-made treats made by our members, and alongside our raffle offering some brilliant prizes, Dorothy’s Tombola makes it’s return!To add to the fun, the Friends of Morrab Gardens will also be holding a plant sale next door in front of the Gardener’s House, until 12.00pm.
Join us from 10.00am, and bring your cash as not all stalls will be able to take cards. But please don’t bring your car, as parking won’t be available on site.

A Philosopher’s Guide to Nature
2024-06-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Morrab Library
Ever pondered the profound mysteries of nature? Can Arne Naess’s deep ecology unveil the wisdom inherent in our connection with the natural world? How does Soga Ryojin’s assertion, “We cannot rise above nature,” resonate in a world balancing technological marvels and ecological consciousness? Join us in exploring these questions, as we attempt to guide ourselves towards a harmonious coexistence with nature in our ever-evolving world.
£14 [or pay what you can afford]
Either use the link to eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-philosophers-guide-to-nature-tickets-922951902987?aff=oddtdtcreator or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Stoic Meditation on Death: Embracing Mortality for a Fuller Life
2024-06-25 13:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
What if contemplating our mortality could unlock the key to living a richer, more meaningful life? Join our Stoic Meditation on Death discussion group as we explore this profound question. Discover how embracing the inevitability of death can liberate us from fear, allowing us to truly savour each moment and align our actions with what truly matters. Dive deep into Stoic philosophy with like-minded individuals and embark on a journey towards a fuller, more intentional existence.
£14 [or pay what you can afford]
Either use the link to eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-philosophers-guide-to-nature-tickets-922951902987?aff=oddtdtcreator or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Creative Communities taster session | Wednesday 26th June, 10am - 1pm
2024-06-26 10:00 - 13:00
You will know James Parnham-Kenny as one of our Library Assistants, but when he’s not at The Morrab Library he is a storyteller, podcaster and “general creative odd job handyman” with his creative company, Multivax.
He will be running a couple of taster creative workshops taking place at the Library this June.
Creative Communities taster session | Wednesday 26th June, 10am – 1pm
Come along if you’d like to stretch your creative muscles and network over a coffee. Have a creative hobby you want to share? Want to meet other creative people and bring along a project you’re working on? James will lead the session in a few creative writing activities for wellbeing, with an opportunity for people to share their own creative ventures.
£6 includes creativity prompt sheets and pen. Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.

Creative Journaling
2024-06-28 13:30 - 15:30, 2024-07-19 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
1:30-3:30pm. £10/person. Bring your own notebook. Refreshments provided. Optional £5 starter pack for newbies featuring a notebook, pen, and roll of washi tape

This monthly workshop is an opportunity for people to get together and journal in a safe space with plenty of goodies to play with. There is a loose structure, with templates, tips, and tricks, ensuring attendees get what they need from the session rather than following a strict plan.

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

Creative Journaling
2024-06-28 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Friday 28 June 1.30-3.30

£10/person. Bring your own notebook. All other equipment supplied. Additional starter pack available for newbies for £5 (dot grid notebook, washi, and pen, plus prompts and templates).
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

Join James Parnham-Kenny's creative workshops
2024-07-03 10:30 - 13:30 | Morrab Library
You will know James Parnham-Kenny as one of our Library Assistants, but when he’s not at The Morrab Library he is a storyteller, podcaster and “general creative odd job handyman” with his creative company, Multivax. James will be running more of his creative workshops in the Summer.

3rd July – Lit Fest short story/poetry prompts & bookplate making! The perfect gift! 10:30 – 1:30pm. Sessions are £10 with a prompt booklet and pen to take away with you. Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.

7th August – Virtual campfire storytelling & writing workshop. 10:30 – 1:30pm.
Sessions are £10 with a prompt booklet and pen to take away with you. Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.
20th Aug – Maker meetup, have a craft project you want to crack on with/start but don’t want to do it alone? We’ll pop the kettle on! Network and get some creative prompts to take away! 10:30 – 1:30pm.
Sessions are £10 with a prompt booklet and pen to take away with you. Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.
Half term kids workshops:
30th July (Half Term) – Game making workshop/Tabletop role play game taster. 10:30 – 12:30pm & 1 – 3pm.
Sessions are £10 and include all the resources you need, plus a goodie to take away with you!. Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.
31st July (Half Term) – Game making workshop/Tabletop role play game taster. 10:30 – 12:30pm & 1 – 3pm.
Sessions are £10 and include all the resources you need, plus a goodie to take away with you! Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.
A reminder that he does have a workshop on the 26th June: Creative Communities taster session | Wednesday 26th June, 10am – 1pm
Come along if you’d like to stretch your creative muscles and network over a coffee. Have a creative hobby you want to share? Want to meet other creative people and bring along a project you’re working on? James will lead the session in a few creative writing activities for wellbeing, with an opportunity for people to share their own creative ventures.
£6 includes creativity prompt sheets and pen. Booking is essential. Email multivax@outlook.com to book a place.

Stories of the Stones | with Dr Serena Trowbridge
2024-07-10 14:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
Our next Library talk comes from Dr Serena Trowbridge. She will be returning to The Morrab Library Reading Room to talk about the ‘Stories from the Stones’ on Wednesday 10th July at 2pm.
Britain’s landscape contains many stone circles, especially in Cornwall. Their original purpose remains mysterious despite extensive archaeological investigation, and perhaps it is their obscurity which makes them so fascinating.
Over the centuries they have inspired many legends, most famously of girls turned to stone for dancing on a holy day, or stones which walk to a river and drink. The stories reflect the changing interests and concerns of society and tell us more about our culture than they do about the sites themselves. This talk will explore a few of these stories of the stones, including the Merry Maidens, and consider the significance of mythmaking and storytelling.
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 1st July. 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.

Mixed Media and Collage - with Emma Farley
2024-07-12 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
Friday 12 July 1.30-3.30

Express yourself through different mediums. Emma will bring a range of materials to play with (paper, card, canvas, paint, ink, pens, etc) but feel free to also bring your own supplies.

Tickets are £15 and include all equipment and refreshments.

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

EMBROIDER A BEE: And learn about and help our wild bees
2024-07-16 10:00 - 12:30 | Morrab Library
This is a project to create a huge art quilt. The project aims to raise awareness of the loss of biodiversity, explore the nearly 300 kinds of bees we have in this country and help people develop their embroidery skills.
It is a long term project and it is hoped that the final artwork will be exhibited to raise donations for wildlife projects.
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 I do have a few materials. If you have any embroidery threads , a needle and scissors that would be very helpful – otherwise just book and turn up
More detail about the project is contained in two videos

is a lovely introduction https://vimeo.com/724988781/f27d4ca421
is a how to video https://vimeo.com/766141264/365f9de6db

Complete beginners are very welcome.
This is an unfunded workshop to produce bees to add to the project. Please pay what you can – we suggest £3 to £5.
Places are limited – book this workshop by email Vickyvicks@btinternet.com or text 07834287562

A visit to the photography collection at The Morrab Library
2024-07-17 10:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
Make it Better (CIC), a not for profit company using art to improve lives (https://mitber.com/) are hosting an event to be held on Wednesday 17th July at the library.
In the morning, there’ll be a talk about the library and an exploration of the photography archive. The afternoon will offer the chance to join a gentle stroll and some fun photography challenges starting outside The Morrab Library.
Find all the information you need, including how to book, here:
Morning session: https://shorturl.at/kHxZj
Afternoon session: https://shorturl.at/y6KdK
Suggested donation £5

Come and explore our Library's Archives
2024-07-18 10:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
Join us as we once again delve into The Morrab Library’s wondrous archive collection to bring you some more of its treasures.
Papers relating to Humphry Davy, 18th century recipes, diaries from Greenham Common, the work of engraver Hilda Quick, 17th century religious plays, maps of old Palestine, scientific illustrations, pressed local Mosses and so much more will be on display.
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.
We look forward to seeing you!

Creative Journaling with Emma Farley
2024-07-19 13:30 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
£10/person. Bring your own notebook. All other equipment supplied. Additional starter pack available for newbies for £5 (dot grid notebook, washi, and pen, plus prompts and templates).
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

Tickets still available - Debut Authors: Jodie Matthews and Ian Russell-Hsieh in Conversation
2024-07-20 13:30 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
Our next talk in the Reading Room at The Morrab Library will be a conversation between two debut novelists: Cornish author Jodie Matthews and Cornwall-based author Ian Russell-Hsieh. Their books are two very different explorations of grief, love and heritage and this conversation will be taking place on Saturday 20th July at 1.30pm.
Both of the books are available to borrow from the Library. Please email us if you would like to reserve either of the books.
“Meet Me At The Surface” by Jodie Matthews
Merryn grew up on the wilds of Bodmin moor, raised by her mother and her aunt in an old farmhouse. Here, the locals never leave the village, fear for the future of their farms and cling desperately to the folkloric tales that are woven into their history. Except Merryn, who has escaped to Manchester for university. When Merryn returns home for the memorial service of her ex-girlfriend Claud, she finds her childhood home stranger and more secretive than ever. MEET ME AT THE SURFACE weaves myth with queer folk horror in an unforgettable mystery that introduces an exciting new voice in fiction.
“I’m New Here” by Ian Russell-Hsieh
Fired from his job and dumped by his girlfriend, Taiwanese-British photographer Sean flies to Taipei to seek oblivion. Lost in the neon heat of his parents’ homeland, though, all he finds is alienation. Then, a chance encounter with a mysterious older man draws him into a friendship where the terms of engagement are quickly, ominously blurred. I’M NEW HERE is a thrilling, hallucinatory debut and masterclass in unreliable narration.
Tickets are still available. Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 for a ticket. 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.

Creative journaling for bookworms of all ages with Emma Farley
2024-07-20 13:30 - 15:30
Saturday 20 July 1.30-3.30

Tickets are just £10 and include two notepads, two sheets of stickers, a roll of washi tape, a bookmark, and refreshments, plus blank bookmarks and tassels to decorate your own.

Emma will bring plenty of stationery, templates, and prompts to play with. Bring your own notebook or request one for an additional £3 at the time of booking.

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

Game Making Children's Workshops with James Parnham-Kenny
2024-07-30 | Morrab Library

Game making workshops for children with James Parnham-Kenny
2024-07-31 | Morrab Library

Virtual campfire storytelling & writing workshop - James Parnham-Kenny
2024-08-07 10:30 - 13:30 | Morrab Library

Seaweed Pressing Workshop SOLD OUT
2024-08-10 12:00 - 15:30 | Morrab Library
THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT
The Seaweed Institute invites you to join them to learn the craft of seaweed pressing – a Victorian practice that captures the underwater beauty of seaweeds. This pressing workshop is particularly special as they are hosting it in collaboration with The Morrab Library.
From The Morrab you will walk together to the foreshore of Mounts Bay to search for seaweeds to press. Whilst on the beach you will learn about sustainable harvesting, tides and edible species will be pointed out to you.
Back at the library you will have the chance to view some beautiful examples of historic seaweed pressings. The library’s archive is home to incredible bound examples of original pressings collected in Mounts Bay.
The cultural history of seaweeds will be discussed and you will learn how to forage, store and use this abundant resource.
With inspiration from the archives you will start the pressing process . After laying out your designs they will be loaded into the seaweed press where they will dry over the next weeks. The Institute will send your pieces to you via the post when they are ready.
The cost is £40.
The library is not taking bookings. You can book here via Eventbrite, or contact the Seaweed Institute.

Super Storytime with James and Jasper the Dragon
2024-08-14 10:30 - 12:00 | Morrab Library
The first of our school summer holiday events will be a Super Storytime with Library Assistant and Storyteller, James and Jasper the Dragon!
Do you know some silly rhymes? Book into our next Super Storytime for a funny time with Dr Seuss’ classic stories and then make some of your own rhymes.
Super Storytime will be taking place in the Reading Room on Wednesday 14th August from 10.30-12. It is a journey for 4 to 8-year-olds but there will be refreshments for the grown-ups they bring along! Booking is essential so please let us know if you would like to come along so we can make sure we have enough cake! All children will need to be accompanied by an adult.
Contact us at enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or telephone 01736 364474 to book a place. Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support The Morrab Library (suggested £5).

Creative prompts for crafting with James Parnham-Kenny
2024-08-20 10:30 - 13:30 | Morrab Library

Vanessa Bell: British Post Impressionist Artist, her life and art
2024-08-21 14:00 - 15:00 | Morrab Library
Our next Library talk will be from Sarah Latham Phillips MA who will be talking about the life and art of Vanessa Bell (1879 – 1961), British Post Impressionist Artist. This will take place in the Reading Room on Wednesday 21st August at 2pm.
This beautifully illustrated talk will focus on the life and art of one of our most interesting and famous female Modern British Artists, who trained at the RA & Slade schools and was a member of the Bloomsbury Group. Vanessa spent a considerable amount of her childhood in St Ives and was clearly influenced by its beauty, atmosphere and colours.
Sarah Latham Phillips is well-known in the West Country as a freelance lecturer and WEA Tutor. Sarah has been studying Bloomsbury art and literature for over thirty years and has published on Virginia Woolf as a Cubist Writer.
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 12th August. 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.

Creative Writing Workshop for 12-16 year olds | Ghost Story Writing with Bridget Crowley
2024-08-22 10:00 - 12:30 | Morrab Library
The Morrab Library doesn’t have a ghost, but what if it did?
In this creative writing workshop, we will use the wonderful old house, The Morrab Library, and some of the treasures within, as the starting point for writing our very own ghost stories.
Bridget Crowley is the author of five children’s books, three of which feature ghosts. In this workshop for 12-16 year olds, Bridget will share some tips for writing a story that thrills and chills, builds suspense and draws from real places and history to create the setting and character or a compelling plot. Bridget’s latest book ‘Wake Up Mr Kean’ is set in The Old Theatre in Penzance and her ghost is famous actor Edmund Kean who really performed there in the early 19th Century.
The workshop will take place in the Reading Room. Booking is essential. All materials and refreshments will be provided.
Entry is free but donations are welcome to support The Morrab Library (suggested £5). Booking is essential – email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 to book a place.
