Falkirk Libraries' latest newsletter
Not subscribed to our newsletter? You can opt in by: logging into your account dashboard; asking at the library; or by dropping us an email to libraries@falkirk.gov.uk.
A belated Happy New Year to you!
Welcome to the first library newsletter of 2026. We’ve lots to share, let’s go.
2026 is the National Year of Reading, a UK-wide campaign designed to inspire more people to make reading a regular part of their lives. We’re here to help you do that, not only with our huge range of books, but through our events program, and some alternative ways to access reading material.
Have you tried our apps for reading, listening, and learning?
If you’re using Audible, or paying for newspaper and magazine subscriptions, read on. Your library membership gives you FREE access to ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and more, across a range of easy access apps. All you need is your library card number and PIN.
Libby has audiobooks and ebooks for all ages and interests, as well as features like bookmarking, sleep timer, and adjustable speed and font size. There’s also the ULibrary app for audiobooks.
PressReader hosts current and past editions of popular magazines, as well as daily newspapers from the UK and around the world. You get free access to the app with your library membership.
Transparent Language has 100+ languages to learn in an interactive, challenging app and website. There’s a version for young people too called KidSpeak.
Head to the library catalogue for more info and to see more tools for learning e.g. Theory Test Pro to help you pass your driving test or Go Citizen for navigating the UK citizenship test.
Something new for 2026?
Is this the year you get more creative or learn something new? We can help! In libraries you’ll find reminiscence, craft, gardening, and wellbeing groups. Head to our website events page to see what takes your fancy.
Learn My Way is a free online learning website that lets you get to grips with IT at your own pace. We’ll be on hand to support you in weekly sessions.
Borrow a Micro:Bit and try simple coding from home with tiny computers you can borrow from your local library.
Creative Writing Groups offer friendly, informal encouragement to new and seasoned writers
Family history sessions start soon to help you explore your family's past. We can show you how to get started and how to use the Ancestry website – which is free to access in library buildings. Keep an eye on our website for details.
Watch with us: Edinburgh Book Festival
We’re revisiting some of the best bits of last year’s book festival. Let’s watch author streams together and chat about books! Look out for Maggie O’Farrell talking Hamnet, The Witches of Scotland, Newsman John McKay, and more. Info and booking on Eventbrite.
February school holiday
Get out of the house and spend the day at the library this February school holiday. There’s also some exciting events, which you can book on Eventbrite:
Violin and guitar taster sessions for young people. If you enjoy them, you’ll get first refusal for our workshops in the Spring school holidays.
Isadora Moon’s birthday Join us to celebrate 10 years of Harriet Muncaster's popular children's character.
Still to come this year
March: Spoken Word event for World Book Night
April: Spring School holiday activities
May: Bookbug Week
June: Make Music Day events, including an open mic at Falkirk Library
Donate a musical instrument
If you've any portable instruments you no longer have use for, please consider donating them to our musical instrument library. Acoustic and electric guitars, small amps, and violins are particularly sought after. We're not accepting any wind or brass instruments at the moment. Instruments can be handed into any library in the Falkirk area.
Follow us online
There are lots more to tell you about, but we couldn't fit it all in. Keep up to date with what's happening on our websites and social channels (find us @FalkirkLibraries)
Thanks for reading. See you soon!