Examples of community libraries in Staffordshire

We are proud to have 27 libraries across Staffordshire which are already community managed and delivered.

In these libraries we are working with a range of local groups, a health trust, a church, Rotarians and a business enterprise group. One group, the Werrington Community Volunteer Group, has just received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service – the equivalent of the MBE for voluntary groups.

Rising Brook Community Library - a case study

See what Sue Patterson of Rising Brook Community Library has to say about what it's like to run their Community Library and how they've been supported by the council.

Werrington Library and Wellbeing Centre - a case study

Werrington Community Volunteer Group has transformed Werrington Library into the first Library and Wellbeing Centre in the county. As well as hosting a range of different local organisations and delivering a quality library service, the library space will be used to fit the needs of the local community.

Werrington has nearly twice the national average of people aged over 65, so it’s a key part of their community plan to help older people combat loneliness through more local information, help and advice and getting more involved. The Community Group also manages a local website, and an app that gives access to everything going on in Werrington.

"Werrington Library and Wellbeing Centre is a multi-function facility. As well as a book service, we offer social activities, community classes, events and health and wellbeing services. This is the most important thing we have ever done, because it will help so many people. The support we've had is phenomenal.''

- Werrington Community Volunteers Group.

Silverdale Community Managed Library

Although Silverdale Community Managed Library, has seen a rise in issues, visits and new members, the community also benefits from a number of new groups, including new Baby Bounce and Rhyme sessions for families. Many libraries also offer access to other services that support families and prevent loneliness.