‘This has given me a new lease of life’ – libraries seek volunteers

PEOPLE are being reminded about the many volunteering opportunities available in their local library as part of a new campaign.

Over 800 regular volunteers already play an important role in Staffordshire’s 43 libraries, all making a real difference in their community while helping them explore their own interests.

Volunteers help with a wide range of duties from organising books and resources, dealing with customers, and helping out with reading groups, Bounce and Rhyme sessions for children, ‘Knit and Natter’ groups and job search activities. A team of volunteer IT Buddies also play a vital role in most libraries showing people how to access the latest technology, smart devices, computers and the Internet.

Gill Heath, pictured, Cabinet Member responsible for libraries at Staffordshire County Council said: “Our libraries continue to play a vital role within local communities and with our many volunteers and lots of different activities we’re having a real impact on the lives of local people.

“The start of the New Year is also a brilliant time for people thinking about volunteering to actually have a go. Not only does volunteering make a huge difference in local communities but it can also be great for the people that take part.

“Being a volunteer offers different things to different people. For some, this is the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and move closer to the jobs market, for others it can be a route to improved health and wellbeing or meeting others, and for many it is the simple pleasure and satisfaction gained from helping people or ‘putting something back.’

“Whether you just want to try it out, or volunteer in a more formal way we would love to hear from you.” Volunteers also play an important role promoting the library in their own local communities, helping raise the profile of events and activities while encouraging more people to visit and use the services.

Library volunteer Sue Hallet runs the Language Café at her local library. Sue said: “I really love volunteering at the library. It’s certainly the most fulfilling thing I’ve done in a long, long time.

“I retired two years ago, and I felt invisible and that I didn’t count. I missed the community and I am enjoying being with people who are learning about our community. This has really given me a new lease of life”.

People can find out more about the many volunteering opportunities in libraries at www. staffordshire.gov.uk/volunteerinyourlibrary.