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Some of our initiatives:


 Supporting digital literacy in all Warwickshire libraries


 Free use of public computers and free access to the internet, and a new device-lending scheme


 Let’s Make Spaces with digital kit, including 3D printers, and exploration sessions in larger libraries


 Autism and dementia-friendly libraries


Despite its rather affluent image, Warwickshire contains pockets of real deprivation. These are not confined to the north of the county – but the north-south divide is measurable. Libraries are key community assets across the county but are especially important in less-advantaged areas. County councillors unanimously approved a £19m project to build a new library and business centre in Nuneaton, as part of a major redevelopment programme for the town, which is in the northern half of Warwickshire.


 Special collections and support to welcome newcomers


 Bereavement cafés; collections of self-help books on mental health


 Meeting places for social activities – from knit-and-natter groups to book clubs


 Events for all ages from ‘bounce and rhyme’ for toddlers to author visits


 Support sessions for job-seekers and start-up businesses


Challenges and opportunities


People are going to need their free public libraries more than ever. It’s an opportunity for libraries to demonstrate their social value and continued relevance in the digital age, welcoming people in to keep warm, borrow books or use the internet.


Libraries are the original levellers-up and recycling/reuse centres. They have always reinvented themselves and, despite predictions of their downfall, continue to have a bright future.


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