The Forum Visit

Janet Walden outside the Forum

My colleague, Janet Walden and I last week visited Southend library in its new home in The Forum.

In the past I have been to Southend library to look at their old newspapers on microfilm, many of the articles I found, mainly from WWII, are now on this website. Martin Lepley of Cast and Crew has also been to the library to do research for their WWI play and much of that research is now included in our archives.

On this visit, Michael Price (User Support Officer) gave us a tour of the local history section. There are Kelly’s Directories, maps, books and newspapers, lots of newspapers which are accessible on microfilm. Most of the items cover Southend and surrounding area but there is a lot of Canvey if you look for it. Unlike in the old library it all seemed much more user friendly.

Myself and Janet Walden in the Local History section

We were able to leave our contact details with Michael and I am sure we will be visiting again shortly.

We brought away with us the leaflets in the gallery below which gives much more detail of what is on offer. But if you cannot find what you are looking for please ask the very friendly staff.

If you need to use the microfilm reader it is best to book it before you visit so that you are not disappointed. You can like us ask for a one to one tour of the facility, just ring and ask. You can find details here.