Free Museum Pop Up at Matson Library

Victorian History Workshop

Learn about life in the Victorian times by exploring some of objects from the past. Try writing on a slate and with a dip pen to think about what school was like during Victorian times. Play with some Victorian toys and games, and make an optical illusion toy to take home. Learn about some of the household jobs people did and try rag rugging to think about people’s homes.

This session is led by the Learning Officer from the Museum in the Park. It's free to attend and you can drop in at any time between 2pm - 4pm

Click here to see more information on the Gloucestershire Libraries website.

This event is part of The Library Challenge, which you can find out all about below. You don't need to be taking part in the Challenge to attend this event, although why not sign up for extra fun?!

The Library Challenge, Tales Through Time starts on Saturday 11th July 2026 and runs until 12th September.

Matson Library's theme is Literary Legacies and is part of the 'Big Stories, Small Island' zone. Over summer you'll be able to travel through time, unlock epic stories and collect rewards with this Gloucestershire Libraries activity created especially for families.

The challenge is designed for children aged 3+ and encourages families to explore books, stories, creativity and adventure across Gloucestershire's libraries.

The free activities take place at Matson Library and throughout the whole of Gloucestershire. Check out the incredible Tales Through Time map below

During the challenge, children can complete fun activities, collect stamps, earn rewards and work their way towards a special Tales Through Time medal and entry into a prize draw featuring book bundles and vouchers.

How the challenge works

1. Sign up

Join for free at any Gloucestershire library. All you need is a free library membership.

No membership? No problem. Click here to join today and be ready when the Tales Through Time challenge begins.

2. Get reading

Take on creative activities inspired by stories, history, myths, explorers and adventures. It's not just about reading books, children can draw, write, stick things in, add photos and make the challenge completely their own.

3. Earn rewards

Complete tasks and collect stamps as you progress through the challenge levels:

3 stamps = Bronze
6 stamps = Silver
9 stamps = Gold

There will be stickers, certificates and surprises to collect along the way.

4. Go for Gold!

Reach Gold level to receive a Tales Through Time medal and be entered into the prize draw giveaway.

Explore Matson through stories

One of the highlights of the challenge is the beautifully illustrated Tales Through Time map, which encourages families to visit libraries across Gloucestershire and discover different themes and adventures at each location.

Matson Library's special Tales Through Time theme is:

Victorian Vibes

Children can also visit nearby libraries to discover even more exciting themes:

Churchdown Library, Legends of the Sea
Gloucester Library, Literary Legacies
Hucclecote Library, Royal Rulers
Longlevens Library, Blitz and Bravery
Quedgeley Library, Weird and Wonderful Britain
Tuffley Library, Amazing Britons - Temporarily closed. Visit the Tuffley Library page for updates
Brockworth Community Library, Stories Through Time

Stay tuned to Gloucester Rocks and all the Gloucestershire Rocks websites for more details, family guides, featured libraries and Tales Through Time inspiration as we get nearer the launch.

Find out more about The Library Challenge: Tales Through Time