Somerton Library Celebrates Five Years of Volunteer-led Operations

Discover the success of volunteer-led Somerton Library & the advocacy for essential library services. Learn about community-driven initiatives & the role of libraries in lifelong learning.

on Feb 26, 2024

Somerton Library Celebrates Five Years of Volunteer-led Operations | Frontlist

An institute has advocated for more libraries to be safeguarded against prospective municipal cuts.

The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals describes libraries as a 'essential' high-street service.

It comes as volunteer-led Somerton Library in Somerset has been praised as 'outstanding' in a study of English public libraries.

Jeremey Greenop, chair of the Somerton Library Trust, stated that libraries are 'diversifying' beyond books.
In an interview with BBC Radio Somerset, he stated that the Friends of Somerton Library were established in response to the council's 2011 and 2018 budget cuts.Even with the layoffs, there was still hope in Somerton that the library would be able to continue operations.

"We have roughly 44 volunteers, who do everything from help with computer systems to organising books.

"It's not just about books anymore, you can go to get your blood pressure taken or borrow a thermal heat camera to check how energy efficient your home is."

The library in Somerton is entirely community-driven, with the council providing funds for books, resources, and wifi.
Jo Cornish, interim CEO of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, expressed alarm about potential changes to library services across the country.

She stated that public libraries serve an important role in encouraging inclusivity, lifelong learning, and community well-being.

"They provide free resources, bridge the digital gap, and offer a space for learning and cultural enrichment."

The institute will engage with councils and the government to defend what she described as a "essential service" from cuts.

Somerset Council stated in a statement: "We work closely with a range of community library partners to deliver 13 of our 32 statutory libraries in their communities, the majority of which have paid and trained staff working alongside dedicated local volunteers."

"They enable additional opening hours, activities and events, as well as helping to raise funding for their local library."