We began this journey in January 2023 alongside Suffolk libraries. We love to see young children coming in with a pile of books to exchange and leave with a new pile.
Over time we also began to realise that for many it is a warm, safe place for some to come away from loneliness, depression, MH, or social anxiety. We live in a rural location 20 min (9.3 mi) from Ipswich town and for many that come the Village Hall is accessible.
Our age range begins at newborn babies in the `tot rock` morning group to a 90-year-old man in the `care `n share` lunch club. We also have the `dog-eared book club` for anyone that wants to talk about the books they`re reading,.
The after-school group is always loud and active which many love to hear and see, and we do our best to provide a craft table, lego, and games.
We keep donation boxes for the refreshments and snacks provided. We also offer tea or coffee for those popping in.
However, it costs £832.17 per month, which is £9,986.04 a year to keep our Library services visiting Shotley; our funding runs out in October. We were given 6 weeks' notice to apply for funding and to fundraise. We are determined to do all we can to keep the link between our residents and their local library, and would be grateful for any contributions.