Welcome to South Tyneside’s state-of-the-art cultural venue, situated in the heart of South Shields, brimming with exciting new experiences, activities and facilities for people of all ages to enjoy.
Opening hours are Monday to Thursday - 9am to 7pm, Friday - 9am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday - 10am to 4pm.
Shop @ The Word is open *Monday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm and *Sunday 10am to 4pm. *The shop is closed 1-1.45pm.
Café @ The Word is open Monday to Thursday - 9am to 6.30pm, Friday - 9am to 4.30pm, Saturday and Sunday - 10am to 3.30pm.
The Word
45 Market Place
South Shields
NE33 1JF
0191 427 1818
Free
WRITE Festival is back this September.
Join us for a fantastic programme of author talks, poetry, performances and creative workshops from 1-26 September.
See a full list of events taking place and book your tickets today!
WRITE Festival 2026
This year’s Summer Reading Challenge is called Read to the Beat, inspiring children to explore the connection between stories and songs.
Sign up at the library from Saturday 4 July until Saturday 12 September.
It's FREE to take part.
Find out more about the Summer Reading Challenge
