Staffordshire’s community managed libraries (CMLs) are celebrating 10 years of success.
The milestone falls during National Volunteers Week, recognising the contribution volunteers make to communities across the country.
A strong and recognised network
Staffordshire County Council supports 27 community managed libraries, making it one of the most respected networks in the country.
Over the last decade:
- Two libraries have received the Queen’s or King’s Award for Voluntary Service
- Some have secured significant external funding
- Others have helped volunteers move into jobs or further study
Visitor numbers are also rising, with more than 4 million visits expected this summer.
Supporting local communities
Community managed libraries offer more than books. They also provide:
- Community transport and befriending
- Police drop‑in sessions
- Health and wellbeing services
Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“This is an outstanding programme… these libraries adapt to meet local needs.”
She added:
“With over 4 million visits expected, we know they provide a valuable service.”
The role of volunteers
Volunteers are key to the success of the libraries.
- Over 700 volunteers support the service
- They help with IT, early years sessions and day‑to‑day running
- In 2025, they gave more than 95,000 hours of their time
- This is valued at over £1.28 million
Hayley added:
“We’re hugely grateful for the enthusiasm and commitment of our volunteers.”
Partnership working
CMLs are run by local groups with support from the county council, which provides:
- Building maintenance
- Wi‑Fi and book stock
- Dedicated support officers
A key partner is Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT), which supports nine libraries in the south of the county.
Neil Carr, CEO of MPFT, said:
“It’s fantastic to see the libraries go from strength to strength, supporting local communities.”
Award‑winning success
Recent achievements include:
- Werrington Community Library and Wellbeing Centre – Queen’s Award (2018)
- Shenstone Library – King’s Award (2025)
- Norton Canes and Rising Brook – Community Hub Award (2024)
How the model works
The first CMLs launched in 2016, alongside 16 larger libraries run directly by the council.
Local groups manage day‑to‑day services, while the council provides support and funding. This allows each library to meet local needs while keeping a strong core offer.
