The Vital Role of Local Libraries: Use them or lose them!

Living in Kent, we are fortunate to have access to a wide range of local libraries that offer much more than just books. From Dartford Library, our nearest hub, to smaller branches like Fleetdown and Greenhithe Library, these community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, fostering learning, and providing valuable resources to residents of all ages. Local libraries are funded by the local authority and serve as an important lifeline for communities. In a digital age, physical spaces to connect, learn, and grow are increasingly valuable. Libraries have evolved over the years and now serve as hubs for knowledge, social interaction, and practical support.

Libraries Are More Than Just Books

At the heart of any library is, of course, the books. The very idea of a library evokes images of shelves stacked high with novels, educational resources, and informative works. But local libraries offer so much more than just shelves of books; they are community-driven spaces that offer a wide array of services that meet the needs of all types of people, regardless of age, background, or interests. In fact, libraries in Kent, like those across the UK, are incredibly well supported by local authorities, and they are much more than repositories for books. They are places where people come together, find support, engage with others, and participate in a wide variety of activities that enrich the lives of residents.

Take Dartford Library, for example, which is our nearest library hub. It’s just a 10-minute drive from home, yet, it feels like a vital community centre. Dartford Library is always bustling with activity, hosting regular events that cater to a broad range of ages and interests. It’s not just a place for checking out books; it’s a space where people come to engage, learn, and meet others. Events like author talks, art exhibits, and educational workshops regularly take place. These events help people stay connected, learn new skills, and enrich their lives in ways that go beyond reading.

Community Engagement and Support Services

Support for Children and Families

Local libraries are vital for families, especially for those with young children. Children’s activities like storytime sessions, reading clubs, and book-themed events play an essential role in helping kids develop a love of reading and learning. These events are not only fun but also help foster literacy skills and support cognitive development. At Fleetdown Library, the regular storytime sessions are a favorite among both parents and children. These events also provide an opportunity for parents to meet other families in the area, helping to build a sense of community and belonging.

Additionally, libraries offer a fantastic range of books for children, from picture books for toddlers to early readers and more advanced fiction for teens. This ensures that children of all ages can access books that are suited to their reading level, supporting their academic growth and personal development. What’s even better is that parents can take advantage of the library’s online catalogue to reserve books for their children, allowing them to browse from home and choose the titles they wish to borrow.

Supporting the Older Generation

Local libraries are also deeply invested in supporting elder members of the community, offering crucial services and resources that help older adults stay connected and informed. For instance, at Fleetdown Library, an advice day for older people is held weekly, providing valuable support and guidance to older residents. These events cover a wide range of topics, including health services, financial advice, and social care. The libraries are often a first port of call for older people seeking information about their rights or local resources, offering a welcoming environment where older people can feel comfortable asking questions and accessing essential services.

In addition to these informational support services, libraries also offer social opportunities. Social events, clubs, and group activities take place regularly, helping older members of the community stay socially active, build friendships, and avoid isolation. Knit and Natter is always a hit – a day where older ladies come in to knit and chat.

Digital Skills Workshops

In our increasingly digital world, many people struggle with basic technology. Whether it’s using email, browsing the internet, or completing online forms, technology can be daunting for some, particularly for those who didn’t grow up with it.

Libraries like Dartford and Fleetdown hold drop-in sessions where people can learn computer basics, get help with specific issues, and gain the skills needed to thrive in a digital world. These sessions are particularly important for older adults, as many may find it difficult to keep up with technological advancements. Libraries provide a safe, welcoming environment where they can get help without judgment or pressure.

In addition to basic skills, libraries also offer access to devices like computers, tablets, and printers, making it easier for those without their own technology to stay connected. This access is essential for people who may not be able to afford expensive gadgets or pay for internet access at home.

Access to Essential Services

Libraries have long been places where people can access important resources—be it books, information, or technology. Today, libraries continue to provide access to essential services, including printing, scanning, and photocopying. Libraries help people complete important tasks, whether they need to print a resume for a job application or scan and email documents for work or school.

This service is especially beneficial to people who might be job-seeking, studying, or dealing with bureaucratic paperwork. Access to a printer, for example, can make the difference between submitting an application on time or missing an important deadline.

Moreover, library staff are knowledgeable about local services and can signpost patrons to support organizations in the community. For example, libraries often have connections with local services such as the Citizen’s Advice Bureau or community centres, offering patrons the opportunity to receive advice on a range of issues, from legal guidance to housing and financial support.

A Wealth of Resources for Learning and Growth

While libraries are widely known for their extensive book collections, the resources available in a local library go far beyond what you find on the shelves. Most local libraries offer a rich array of materials that cater to different interests and needs. Whether you’re looking for fiction, non-fiction, or specialized books on a particular subject, local libraries are a treasure trove of knowledge. What’s even more remarkable is that libraries often provide access to rare or hard-to-find materials, especially for those who may not be able to purchase expensive textbooks or reference books.

In addition to books, libraries are increasingly offering new resources like audiobooks, eBooks, and online databases. These resources are especially valuable for people who are unable to visit the library in person, or for those with disabilities who may find physical books difficult to read. Audiobooks, for instance, are now part of many libraries’ lending services, offering a convenient way for people to enjoy literature while on the go or at home.

Another wonderful feature of libraries is the availability of study areas. Libraries like Dartford and Fleetdown have communal study areas designed for individuals or small groups. These spaces are ideal for students, freelancers, or anyone who needs a quiet place to concentrate. In addition to these shared study areas, many libraries also offer individual desks, providing private spaces where people can work uninterrupted.

I myself often use Fleetdown Library on a Wednesday and Thursday where I have an hour between work finishing and school ending. Not enough time to nip home, but it’s time I loathe to waste. I have my laptop with me anyway and often pop into the library to type, read, or mark for the hour. After all, libraries offer the perfect environment for productivity.

Museums and Local Exhibitions

It’s also worth noting that many libraries, particularly the larger ones, are home to small museums or exhibition spaces that focus on local history and culture. Dartford Library, for instance, is home to a local museum that hosts exhibitions about the area’s past. These exhibitions often feature artifacts, photographs, and documents that explore the history of Dartford and the surrounding Kent region.

In fact, Dartford Library has a fascinating collection of books, including works by local authors. One of these books is a self-published account of a local road with historical significance, which holds personal meaning for us, as my in-laws have lived on this very road for nearly 30 years. Local authors and historians often find a platform in libraries to share their work, offering a glimpse into the history and culture of the area that might not be found in mainstream publications.

Online Services Make Borrowing Easy and Convenient

One of the most significant changes in libraries over the years has been the rise of online services. With an online library account, patrons can browse through available titles, place holds on books, and renew their materials without ever leaving home. This is particularly convenient for people with busy schedules, as they can reserve books or extend their borrowing period without having to visit the library in person. Very handy for those of us with small children and ever-increasing life demands!

Most libraries also offer digital lending, allowing patrons to borrow eBooks and audiobooks directly from their devices. This has been a game-changer for people who prefer reading or listening digitally but may not have the space for physical books.

If we don’t use it, we will lose them!

Councils continually review how they use their budget. To show the vitality of these services, we must use them! Libraries have already had their hours cut. Most don’t open more than four days a week, and those that do often don’t open for the whole day. To find your local library, please visit the website of your local council. Kent-dwellers can check here.