Peterborough Libraries is running an ‘Aliens & Robots’ programme across selected branches during the February half-term. The themed activities take place from 17–20 February 2026, with sessions at Werrington (Tue 17 Feb, 2.30pm), Eye (Wed 18 Feb, 2pm), Central Library (Thu 19 Feb, 11am) and Orton (Fri 20 Feb, 2.30pm). The sessions combine storytelling and hands-on ‘junk modelling’ workshops where children can build spaceships, robots and alien friends. Booking is available through any Peterborough library or by emailing reading@peterboroughlimited.co.uk. The event listing states a charge of £1 per child; it is suitable for ages 4+ and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Organised by Peterborough Libraries & Archives (services operated by Peterborough Limited on behalf of Peterborough City Council), the half-term programme is intended to offer low-cost educational activities for families while schools are on their February break (half-term week: mid-February 2026). The programme forms part of wider efforts in the city to deliver STEM and technology-focused opportunities for young people (Peterborough CoderDojo and other activities run at local branches).
The events arrive against the backdrop of library service uncertainty during 2025, when Peterborough City Council’s budget discussions included proposals that would have reduced the number of static libraries; a public consultation and local campaigning followed. Earlier case studies of the city’s approach to extending access — including the implementation of open+ (a card-and-PIN entry system) — have been cited by officials as helping to keep branches accessible during unstaffed hours, though the Bibliotheca case study documenting open+ in Peterborough dates from 2020.
Local community groups that campaigned during the 2025 consultations continue to press for library services to remain a priority. The Aliens & Robots sessions are one of several low-cost and free-to-access activities the service is offering this half-term to support families and encourage children’s learning outside school.
