Posted on Friday 14th October 2022
Victoria Wilson, left, hears about the work at Newcastle library from volunteer Stephanie.
Thousands of people are using libraries to help them this winter.
Whether it’s for reading, learning, business or a warm welcome, Staffordshire’s 43 libraries are helping thousands of people.
In the last few weeks library staff and volunteers have been among those processing food vouchers for the elderly, after the council’s children’s centres team worked round the clock to issue more than 20,000 at short notice.
Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Communities and Culture, said:
Libraries are always regarded as safe, welcoming places; always at the heart of their communities.
This winter we’re emphasising that with our commitment to a warm welcome and lots of practical support and advice for everyone as part of the Council’s ‘Here to Help’ campaign this winter.”
In central Newcastle, the Castle House library processed more than 400 of the £125 food vouchers in a single week.
The library is also offering place for charging phones and laptops, helping students to study in a warm place and supporting small start-up businesses with a place to work, with access to help and advice on running their own venture.
Newcastle is also one of 16 libraries running the ‘Donate IT’ scheme, recycling laptops and tablets to help those unable to afford a new one.
Speaking during a visit to Newcastle library, Victoria Wilson added:
There are so many little things happening here and at our 42 other libraries which add up to a lot of help and emotional support for people, particularly those who live alone.
Whether it’s running additional coffee mornings, putting out jigsaws on tables to provide a reason for people to sit and stay awhile, or having the PCs available for people to browse and catch up on their emails, our libraries staff and volunteers are determined to help this winter.
Staffordshire library service has also teamed up with Morrison’s supermarket and Lakeland Dairies this winter to offer a free hot drink at some venues.
As well as serving the hot brews, staff and volunteers at Biddulph, Burton, Cannock, Glascote, Leek, Newcastle, Perton, Stafford, Stone and Uttoxeter libraries will be taking the opportunity to let people know about the range of services, activities and support available in their library.
Further details on the Here to help campaign and the wide range of support to help with the cost of living pressures is available at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/heretohelp. People can also visit their nearest community help point, library or children’s centre for support.