Libraries celebrate more visitors to Shropshire branches
People in Shropshire have increased their library visits by 60 per cent since this time last year, and special events have seen attendance figures rise by a staggering 412 per cent in the same period – demonstrating the diverse role library branches play in their communities.
The latest figures from Shropshire Council’s libraries service show that book lending has also risen by 10 per cent in the last 12 months.
Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health (ICS) and communities, said:-
“We are delighted to see the people of Shropshire clearly value the libraries service and are making good use of it.
“Our vision for Shropshire’s libraries is about the evolution of the service and encouraging even more people through the doors to access a broader range of services on offer.
“By connecting with people through our libraries we can improve the health and wellbeing of our communities, we can help people access quality information and digital services, to learn new skills and to feel safe online, and through our events programme we help people access and participate in a variety of quality and diverse arts and cultural experiences.”
From Monday 3 October – Sunday 9 October 2022, Shropshire’s libraries will also be marking national Libraries Week, which is celebrating the central role that libraries play in supporting lifelong learning.
Libraries Week 2022
Rob Gittins, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture and digital, added:-
“Whether it’s open mic poetry, author events, creative writing, Dungeons & Dragons, or learning how to trace your family tree, our libraries open up a world of knowledge and entertainment for everyone from 0 to 100+ years old.
“We have a brilliant programme of activities in libraries that bring communities together. Find out more about all the ways we can take action together to make a difference to people’s lives. Everyone is welcome, and the library is free to join.”
Visit our Shropshire Libraries website to find out more about all of the services and activities on offer throughout the year.
Many Shropshire libraries are now home to our Shropshire Local service, which aims to make the council more accessible to people and make it easier for those in rural communities to find out more about local support services and how best to access them. To find out more and locations visit Shropshire Local Mobile | Shropshire Council
Further information
About Libraries Week
Libraries Week is a week-long celebration of the nation’s much-loved libraries, with a focus in 2022 on showcasing how libraries across all sectors are inspiring learning for all, and helping individuals to unlock and fulfil their potential at every stage of life. Organised by Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), the library and information association, and supported by partners including Arts Council England, The Reading Agency, Libraries Connected, London Libraries and the School Libraries Association. Join in the #LibrariesWeek conversation and find out more at www.librariesweek.org.uk @librariesweek #LibrariesWeek.
