Community leaders and volunteers in Peasedown St John are celebrating this week after receiving the news that the village’s popular community library has received a much-needed funding boost.
Peasedown Community Library, which is one of B&NES Council’s 11 community libraries across the district is run by local charity, the Peasedown Community Trust.
With funds to run the library running low, local councillors applied to the Medlock Trust – an organisation known for its philanthropic work – who have awarded the library a £2,000 grant.
Library Operations Manager, Cllr Karen Walker (Independent, Peasedown), said:
“We’re very grateful to the Medlock Trust for their financial support. This £2,000 grant means we can continue to run a local, people-centred service where residents can access a wide range of books – all for free!
Over 200 people are using our services each month. Not only is reading enjoyable, but it’s also good for our mental health too. It reduces stress, is therapeutic and keeps our brains active.
As well as our users, the library is also a hub for volunteering opportunities. We have a dedicated team of 15 volunteers who keep the service running, week in, week out. This funding means they can continue doing what they love.”
Two years ago, Bath & North East Somerset Council decided to cease all funding for it’s 11 community libraries, informing all managers that they needed to ‘find the money themselves or face closure’.
With the council no longer funding its own libraries, and finances running low, Peasedown library’s future was in doubt – but thanks to this rescue grant from the Medlock Trust its doors can now firmly remain open!
Cllr Gavin Heathcote (Independent, Peasedown) added:
“We were saddened to learn that the Lib Dem leadership at the council has decided to pull the plug on funding all community libraries. All of them have provided a much-needed lifeline for residents, especially those living in rural, isolated communities.
With no more financial support coming from the council, Peasedown Community Library’s future was in doubt.
The grant from the Medlock Trust means the future is looking bright for our little village library. We’re grateful to the trust for responding to our appeal for help.”
Peasedown Community Library is located next to Peasedown St John Primary School on Bath Road (BA2 8DH).
Opening days are:
• Mondays: 11am – 3pm
• Wednesdays: 2pm – 4pm
• Saturdays: 10am – 1pm
For more information and to enquire about signing up to become a volunteer email Cllr Karen Walker at peasedownlibrary@hotmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/PSJCommunityLibrary
