Free half-term activity week for Exeter families at St Thomas Library

Families in Exeter will be able to take part in a week of free reading and creative activities this February half-term through a new joint project between a city children’s venue and a local library.

Alibi, a children’s arts organisation, and St Thomas Library are working together to stage The Story Box, a community event running from Monday 16 to Saturday 21 February at Emmanuel Hall on Cowick Street.

The programme forms part of the 2026 National Year of Reading and is intended to encourage children to engage with books and storytelling through a mix of informal activities and organised workshops.

Throughout the week Emmanuel Hall, which houses both Alibi and St Thomas Library, will host daily drop-in sessions from 10am to 4pm. The space will include reading areas, craft tables and creative play zones, alongside a small café.

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Each day will include a free story time session at 11am, aimed at younger children, as well as ongoing activities such as origami, colouring and quiet reading corners. A co-working space will also be available for parents and carers.

A series of themed workshops and events is planned across the week.

On Monday, artist Keith Sparrow will lead a manga drawing workshop for children aged eight and over, while Books from Herbie will run storytelling and craft sessions.

Tuesday will feature a drama workshop called “Agent Alibi the Book Detective”, aimed at primary-aged children.

On Wednesday, local poet Harula Ladd will offer informal poetry writing sessions, alongside a nature-inspired craft workshop.

Thursday’s programme includes a poetry workshop with Bookbag and poet Sirisha Damarla, as well as drop-in gardening activities run by Zero Mile Gardens.

Friday will focus on interactive songs and storytelling with performer Laura Loft, and the week will conclude on Saturday with an origami workshop led by CreArts Lab.

Debbie Bucella, CEO of Alibi, said the aim of the event was to make reading more accessible during the school holidays.

“We’re pleased to be working with St Thomas Library on this project,” she said. “The Story Box is about giving families a relaxed space where children can explore books and creativity together.”

Organisers say the activities are suitable for a wide range of ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult in the drop-in areas, although some workshops will operate on a drop-off basis.

Most elements of the programme are free to attend, with a small number of workshops carrying modest charges or operating on a “pay what you can” basis.

Emmanuel Hall has step-free access and accessible toilet facilities.

Further information on times and booking arrangements is available through Alibi and St Thomas Library.