Weston Library has recently welcomed two fantastic charities into the space, both focused on enriching the local community in different ways – through curiosity, learning, and movement.
Discovering the Wonder of Science
Wonderseekers, the charity behind Winchester Science Centre, is dedicated to making science accessible to children who may otherwise miss out due to social or economic barriers. Their sessions are designed to spark curiosity and give young people the chance to explore, experiment, and discover the excitement of science in a fun and engaging way.
After visiting Weston Library to learn more about the local community and the activities already taking place there, the Wonderseekers team saw an opportunity to bring their work directly into the space.
During February half term, they delivered their first science session at the library – and it was a huge success. Children were able to get hands-on with science, ask questions, and experience the sense of wonder that comes from exploring how the world works.
Following the positive response, Wonderseekers are now planning to run regular sessions at Weston Library. The next session, Electrifying Easter, will take place on 1 April, where young participants will explore the exciting world of electricity through interactive activities and experiments.
By bringing these experiences directly into the community, the sessions help ensure that more children have the opportunity to discover the joy of science, regardless of their background.
Moving Together Through Community Connections
Weston Library has also been working closely with Zoelogic, a Southampton-based charity that uses movement and dance to support community wellbeing.
The connection began thanks to local social prescriber Lainey, who visited the library to learn more about the needs and interests of the community. During conversations with customers and volunteers, it became clear that some members of the library’s knitting group were interested in incorporating gentle physical activity into their routine.
Zoelogic stepped in to help bring that idea to life.
In December, they delivered a movement session specifically designed for the knitting group, introducing chair-based and standing exercises that encouraged people to move in a relaxed and enjoyable way. The session was met with an overwhelmingly positive response.
Because of its success, Zoelogic will now be returning to Weston Library to run a six-week movement programme starting in April, giving participants the chance to build movement and wellbeing into their weekly routine.
Inspiring Movement for Families Too
As part of the initial trial, Zoelogic also delivered a movement session for the library’s baby and toddler group. The session encouraged parents and carers to move alongside their children, highlighting the importance of physical activity in early childhood development.
Through playful and engaging activities, families were able to experience how movement can support learning, confidence, and bonding between parents and children.
The session proved so popular that it has already sparked new ideas among the volunteers who run the group, inspiring them to explore new ways to incorporate movement and activity into future sessions.
A Space for Community to Grow
These new partnerships highlight how Weston Library continues to evolve as more than just a place to borrow books. By welcoming organisations like Wonderseekers and Zoelogic into the space, the library is helping create opportunities for people of all ages to learn, move, and connect.
From discovering the magic of science to building confidence through movement, these sessions are a powerful reminder of what can happen when community spaces and local organisations come together.
Because sometimes the most meaningful impact starts with a simple conversation – and a willingness to try something new.
