Join Islington Libraries during Refugee Week (15-21 June) for a vibrant programme of free, welcoming activities for all ages. From storytelling and creative workshops to hands-on crafts and reading recommendations, these events celebrate courage, culture and community. Whether you’re taking part as a family, exploring new ideas, or simply looking to connect with others, everyone is welcome to get involved and discover what your local library has to offer:

Craft a Lion’s Head (Finsbury Library)

Monday 15 June, 4.00-5.30pm 

Celebrate Refugee Week by creating your own lion’s head – a powerful symbol of courage. Children and families can design and decorate their creations with messages and drawings to show support and welcome to those seeking sanctuary. This free, drop-in session is open to all ages, so just come along and get involved. 

Spanish & Somali Storytelling and Crafts (Central Library)

Monday 15 June, 3.30-4.30pm 

Enjoy an afternoon of storytelling in Spanish and Somali, celebrating language, culture and shared experiences. After the stories, children can take part in a creative craft activity, making their own “flying to safety” butterfly. This free session is open to all ages and welcomes everyone — no booking needed. 

Art Gallery and Creative Workshop (Archway Library)

Wednesday 17 June, 3.30-4.30pm 

Explore artwork created by refugees from around the world and take inspiration to create your own piece. This free, all-ages workshop is a chance to celebrate creativity, culture and the contributions of people seeking sanctuary, while expressing your own ideas through art. 

Make a Hope Card (South Library)

Wednesday 17 June, 3.30-4.30pm 

Get creative and design your own ‘hope card’ using national flowers from around the world. This relaxed, drop-in session invites people of all ages to reflect on themes of hope, belonging and unity while creating something meaningful to take home or share. 

Paint Maps and Flags (Lewis Carroll Library)

Wednesday 17 June, 3.30-4.30pm 

Join the library’s weekly painting club and take part in a special Refugee Week activity. Create colourful maps and flags that celebrate different cultures and communities around the world. This free, drop-in session is open to all ages and a great way to explore creativity through global themes. 

Learn About Countries and Cultures Through Colouring (N4 Library)

Wednesday 17 June, 3.30-4.30pm 

Take a journey around the world at this interactive colouring session. Participants can help colour a large world map while learning about different countries, cultures and communities. This welcoming, family-friendly activity is free to attend and open to everyone. 

Make a Welcoming Flower (North Library)

Thursday 18 June, 3.30-4.30pm 

Join this creative session to make your own “welcoming flower” using colourful materials. Each design reflects individuality while coming together to celebrate unity and inclusion. Open to all ages, this free drop-in activity is a simple and meaningful way to show that everyone is welcome. 

Celebrate Art by Refugees (West Library)

Thursday 18 June, 3.30-5.00pm 

Discover the impact refugees have made in the art world and create your own inspired artwork. This free workshop invites people of all ages to celebrate creativity, culture and contribution while making something unique in a supportive and welcoming environment. 

Refugee Week Book Recommendations (All Libraries)

Available throughout Refugee Week 

Explore a specially curated reading list highlighting stories, voices and experiences of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. All titles can be reserved for free and collected at your local library. Whether you’re looking to learn more or discover new perspectives, it’s a great way to engage with Refugee Week through reading.