Skip header

The Word Library

The Word

For more information on the latest events and exhibitions, opening times and directions, please visit The Word website. The Word is also available to follow on Facebook and Twitter.

The Word, 45 Market Place, South Shields, NE33 1JF

The Word, National Centre for the Written Word, South Shields

The Word Library opening times
Monday - Thursday9am - 7pm
Friday9am - 5pm
Saturday10am - 4pm
Sunday10am - 4pm

  • The Word Library
  • The Word external

The Word Library has over 70,000 books in stock for you to choose from. You don't have to be a resident of South Tyneside to take advantage of the vast range of books, you simply need to be a member of South Tyneside Libraries.

There are a number of events, workshops and talks that you can access without being a member, check out The Word: What's on.

Who is The Word for?

The Word is for everyone, regardless of age, background or circumstances. It is a highly accessible and family-friendly place that is welcoming to all.

Do you have to be a library member to use The Word?

Everyone is welcome to come and experience The Word and there will be plenty on offer for visitors who don't wish to join. But to get full use of all that the Library offers - including free Wi-Fi, borrowing books and using computers - you need to become a member.

How can I join the library?

For information on how to join, see Join the library.

Are all the books for loan?

Most of the books are available for loans except some specialist reference and local history material.

Can I return books at other libraries?

Books can be borrowed from and returned to any library in South Tyneside.

How much does it cost to join the library?

Library membership is free.

Do I need a new library card to use The Word?

No, if you are already a member of South Tyneside Libraries you will be able to use your card at the Word. If you are not a member it is free to join.

How many public computers are at The Word?

48 computers with colour and mono printing.

Events and activities at The Word Library

  • Name
    Baby Bounce
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    10:30am to 11:30am
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Gentle finger, knee bouncing and action rhymes for babies. Suitable from birth - 13 months or when they start walking.
  • Name
    Chess For All session
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    2:00pm to 3:45pm
    Cost
    FREE
    Description
    Come along to a free chess drop-in with members from South Shields Chess Club! Whether you want to hone your skills, develop your strategy or simply learn a new game then this is the club for you! Chess For All runs on a Saturday between 2-3.45pm.
  • Name
    Knit and Knatter
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    10:00am to 11:30am
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Come along to one of our friendly, welcoming library knitting groups.
  • Name
    Jiggle and Wiggle
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    2:00pm to 2:45pm
    Cost
    £1
    Description
    Action rhymes and songs for toddlers. Suitable for 2-3 year olds.
  • Name
    Baby Bounce
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    10:30am to 11:30am
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Gentle finger, knee bouncing and action rhymes for babies. Suitable from birth - 13 months or when they start walking.
  • Name
    Wobbly Walkers
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    2:00pm to 2:45pm
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Structured, interactive music and rhyme sessions for families with toddlers. Suitable for 13 months or when they start walking to 2 year olds.
  • Name
    Library Storytots at The Word
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    2:00pm to 2:45pm
    Cost
    £1.00
    Description
    Stories, crafts and songs for pre-school children. Suitable for 3-4 year olds. Booking is essential - tickets are available to purchase from Level 2 of The Word.
  • Name
    Family MakEy Session
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    5:00pm to 6:00pm
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    The Family MakEy session offers opportunities for tinkering, making and playing with a variety of materials. Suitable for 3-8 year olds and their parent/carer. Places can be booked at www.theworduk.org
  • Name
    Arty tots
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    10:30am to 11:30am
    Cost
    £1
    Description
    Stories, painting and songs for pre-school children. Suitable for 3-4 year olds. Booking is essential - tickets available to purchase from Level 2 of The Word.
  • Name
    Wobbly Walkers
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    2:00pm to 2:45pm
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Structured, interactive music and rhyme sessions for families with toddlers. Suitable for 13 months or when they start walking to 2 year olds.
  • Name
    Baby Bounce
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    10:30am to 11:30am
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Gentle finger, knee bouncing and action rhymes for babies. Suitable from birth - 13 months or when they start walking.
  • Name
    Mat Making
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    11:00am to 12:30pm
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Try your hand at a traditional craft.
  • Name
    Chess For All session
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    2:00pm to 3:45pm
    Cost
    FREE
    Description
    Come along to a free chess drop-in with members from South Shields Chess Club! Whether you want to hone your skills, develop your strategy or simply learn a new game then this is the club for you! Chess For All runs on a Saturday between 2-3.45pm.
  • Name
    Knit and Knatter
    Location
    The Word Library
    Time
    10:00am to 11:30am
    Cost
    Free
    Description
    Come along to one of our friendly, welcoming library knitting groups.
See all events and activities at The Word Library

How would you rate the information on this page?

Share this page