Elson community library warm space

Aim

To ensure every member of the community has a safe, warm, free and friendly space that they are valued, comfortable and respected.

 Thank you for visiting our crowdfunding page. It has been 2 years since the library was saved by the community from closing and is now run entirely by volunteers. In the 2 years the building has firmly established itself at the centre of the community. Not just a library but a community hub, providing low cost or free entertainment for all ages. The children’s play area is a super safe space for young families to use on cold wet days. Our tea room has turned into a meeting place for many, encouraging new friendships and providing social inclusion for the many that  previously lacked this support. Our objective is to ensure that the library and hub will continue to provide additional  facilities  even with the increase of outgoings during the cold winter months. 

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Community impact

The community building has proved beyond any doubt the need for it. Since opening it now has over 1500 members. Two toddler groups run, senior moments for older members has been a major success, many of whom had no other social contact. Art, book clubs, Pilates, crafts and games groups  and many all run from the project. The staff, all volunteers are so friendly and helpful to the members that all visitors find support in this local and approachable project. 

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Why are we crowdfunding?

Unfortunately on the community taking over the building we inherited  an old and veryexpensive heating system and old single glazed windows and unsealed doors. When and if we can afford it we are replacing the worst windows but many are beyond our financial capabilities at this time.  We are so popular with the community, and the nearest safe building within the area,  we decided that we would extend the heating hours to ensure all users would have a safe and warm place to come to. We are also providing hot drinks to those that are using the building for over an hour. The tea room is an income for us but we think it is only fair that people using the building to keep warm should not be charged. We are finding many, particularly young families are using us more during the colder months. Currently the utilities bill is reflecting this increase in usage which the project is finding extremely costly. Any support would be greatly appreciated to meet our objectives.

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How we’ll spend the money raised

Primarily any money raised will be directed at the increase in utility bills from the extended heating hours.  Any excess will be directed at better insulating the building to assist in reducing future bills. Hot drinks will be provided for those using the project as a warm space. 

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This project successfully funded on 6th March 2023