Books and reading are one of life’s pleasures. Libraries also host a range of activities for all ages including crafts, computer skills, volunteering and more. Orton Library is handily located behind the Ortongate complex, with a bus stop and ample parking in the shopping centre.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- Getting lost in a good book can reduce stress, give you enjoyment, and help you learn about people, places, ideas, and things you didn't know!
- Libraries are great places to find out about and access things going on in the local community
- Libraries hold events and activities that can be good for socialising with others
‘The library is a lovely space. You can find nooks for quiet reading and studying, or join in all sorts of fun activities - a lot more goes on than you'd think!’
Library user
How to contact
Where to go
Bushfield House
Orton Goldhay
Peterborough PE2 5RQ
UK
What to expect?
There is plenty of free parking and a bus stop in the Ortongate Shopping Centre. The library is in the large building by the grass behind the main shops, at the opposite end to QD, and is in the same building as Ormiston Bushfield Academy with its own entrance. Photos and a video at the bottom of this page show how to enter.
In the library there is a main desk where you will usually find a friendly and informative librarian. They can help you find all sorts of information, from particular books to community services.
In addition to books, audio books, DVDs, and other materials, the library hosts a wide range of activities for all ages, including:
- Children’s Rhyme Time with singing and colouring
- Children’s Storytime
- Weekly Homework Club with free computer use
- Beginner’s computer courses
- Computer use and wifi access outside of school hours: free for two hours for members
- CoderDojo – a free programming club aimed at young people aged 7-17 during term time. Book here, or for more information contact them on their Facebook page or email them at [email protected].
The Orton Library also has a confidential meeting pod. These spaces have been designed to provide a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental environment for people who may need early help with their emotional and mental health, or who face barriers to accessing support. See the photos of these above.
Pod locations:
Central Library – 2 x four person pods
Hampton Library – 1 x four person pod
Orton Library – 1 x two person pod
How the meeting pods can help:
- Provide confidential space for individuals to meet with support staff
- Offer laptops and WiFi access for self-help tools
- Support those in digital poverty with access to vital information and services
- Create a safe environment for people who may not be able to seek help elsewhere due to personal, cultural or social barriers.
More information
Access to the library is wheelchair-friendly.
There are public toilets in the library.
On the libraries website, you will find lots of opportunities to browse online through Peterborough’s 10 sites across the city combined with the mobile library service, or see what other services they run.
The Central Library is also running a laptop loan IT scheme - if someone is in need of digital support they can borrow a laptop from Central library. Library staff will help set up the laptop, teach them how to use it, set up email account, research and whatever else they need support with. The laptops can be borrowed for 1 week with a deposit which will be returned if the laptop is returned in same condition.
People can also enjoy regular activities, access free internet, or enjoy ‘quiet spaces’ to get some peace and quiet to enjoy your reading or study time.
Librarians are also great at helping you find information you need! For example, they have some excellent health and wellbeing books for teens and children, some shown in the photos below.
Volunteer
The library also has a variety of volunteering opportunities, from helping out with activities, to admin, working with books, and more. Contact them to see what is available.
Access to the library and most activities is free.
People must become a member (free) to borrow library materials and use the computers. Find out how to join on their website.
Find opening hours for all the libraries on this page.
Occasionally, some activities have a cost, which the library will advise on.
This video shows how to get to the library behind the Ortongate Shopping Centre, and a bit around inside.
How to contact
Where to go
Bushfield House
Orton Goldhay
Peterborough PE2 5RQ
UK
