There are eight community libraries in South Staffordshire, Barton-under-Needwood, Baswich, Brewood, Glascote, Holmcroft, Heath Hayes, Hednesford and Norton Canes, which Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT) and Staffordshire County Council work together to deliver. The County Council provides the building, books, infrastructure and meets agreed costs, while MPFT recruits and supports volunteers who manage the day-to-day library service and provide wellbeing development programmes.
Michelle Harte, Community Managed Libraries Co-ordinator at MPFT said, “Both Glascote and Heath Hayes libraries have remained open throughout most of the pandemic, thanks to the commitment and enthusiasm of MPFT volunteers, who recognise that the libraries play an important role in supporting local people to improve and maintain their mental wellbeing.
“Limited services were available to the public in the early lockdowns and have gradually been increased as restrictions have eased. All of the community library volunteers give their time freely and it is due to their efforts and dedication that the libraries remain open for their communities to enjoy.”
In order to continue to provide services, each library needs volunteers to take on a variety of roles. If you are interested, please contact libraryvolunteers@mpft.nhs.uk for more information.