Dalston CLR James Library

Plan your visit

Regular groups, activities & events

Scope Community Disability Energy Advice

Every other Monday
10am—1.30pm
Regular drop-in sessions to support residents who are experiencing financial difficulties with energy costs. No need to book, just turn up.
Upcoming dates: 17 November | 1 December
Poetry Appreciation Club

Third Monday of the month
6pm—7.30pm
Join our group to discuss and enjoy different pieces of poetry each month. No need to book, just turn up.
Dalston Writing Group

Last Monday of the month
6pm—7.30pm
Share inspiration and meet like-minded locals. Sessions are themed, and facilitator Morgan provides prompts to get you going. No need to book, just turn up.
Digital Drop-Ins

Second Tuesday of the month
10am—11am
Get free basic IT help with internet navigation, library accounts, email setup, personal drives, Office apps, file management, and general IT queries. No need to book, just turn up.
Reading Allowed

Second Tuesday of the month
5pm—6pm
Join us to chat about poems and to think about life, choices, and connection. Run by the College of Modern Anxiety CIC. No need to book, just turn up.
Hackney Pensioners’ Convention

First Wednesday of the month
1.30pm—3.30pm
Join us to share your thoughts on relevant topics and issues. Annual Membership is £5.00 and refreshments are provided.

Contact us
Chatterbooks

Last Wednesday of the month
4pm—5pm
Join us at the library to talk about books, meet new people and discover your next favourite read! Ages 8 to 12. Register at the library welcome desk. No need to book, just turn up.
Welcome Hackney: Drop-in for Refugees, Migrants and Asylum Seekers in Hackney

Thursdays
1.30pm—4.30pm
Come along for help and support from friendly council teams and community organisations. Interpreters provided. No need to book, just turn up.
Stories & Rhymes

Thursdays and Saturdays
11am—12pm
Join our librarians for a fun, interactive session with books and songs for babies, toddlers and their adults. No need to book, just turn up.
Queertopia Community Forum

First Thursday of the month
6pm—7.45pm
Whether you're looking to make new friends, get involved in local projects, or just be yourself, if you’re an LGBTQIA+ individual in Hackney, this forum’s for you. Ages 16+. No need to book, just turn up.
Hackney Energy Advice Team Drop-in

Last Thursday of the month
10.00am—12.30pm
CREW Energy are running regular drop-in sessions to support residents who are experiencing financial difficulties, in partnership with Hackney Light and Power. The project is co-funded by Hackney Council and UK Power Networks. No need to book, just turn up.

Upcoming dates: 27 November | No December session | 29 January 2026 | 26 February | 26 March
Digital Buddies

Saturdays during term time
10am—12pm
If you struggle with your phone, laptop or computer, come along for help and advice with any digital issue. No need to book, just turn up.
Lego Club

Saturdays
2pm—3.30pm
Join our friendly Lego Club and see where your imagination takes you! Best for ages 6+. No need to book, just turn up.
Children’s Chess Club

Sundays
2pm—3pm
Join in and learn to play. Chess teaches strategic thinking and logic – and it’s fun! Open to any skill level, best for ages 7+. No need to book, just turn up.