A LEAD youth worker from Droitwich has praised the safe, flexible space that Libraries Unlocked has created for young people who they work with in the town.
Rea-Anne Preece who works on the detached youth project with Wychavon District Council, has been grateful for the positive impact of Libraries Unlocked on the young people involved with the project since they became members.
The Libraries Unlocked scheme was launched last June and has seen library opening hours increase by 85 per cent during that time.
The increase in opening hours has meant that youth workers are able to supervise sessions for the young people at times that work better for them all.
The young people linked to the project have been using the library as an alternative space to complete college work, meet with friends, and even host regular music sessions in meeting rooms.
It has also given them a space they can all easily access, where they can talk about local opportunities and further develop their skills.
Those who have upgraded to the free Libraries Unlocked membership can now visit the library between 8am and 8pm from Monday to Saturday, including previously closed days.
Rae-Anne Preece said: “Droitwich Library has proven to be a fantastic community space for our young people, that they have really taken to, and become Libraries Unlocked members themselves, alongside our staff.
“The open environment that the scheme offers at all times of day, has given the young people a local community space they feel comfortable and happy to visit, and we’ve been able to really engage with them and see them really grow in confidence and skills since they become members.
“The library has now become another safe space for them other than college, school or home and it has been a welcome addition to our outreach work in the town.”
Councillor Marcus Hart, cabinet member with responsibility for communities, said: “It is really heartening to hear Rea-Anne’s positive experiences and the opportunities the scheme has offered to users.
“The overwhelming participation and engagement by our valued community members have reaffirmed the importance of providing accessible and flexible library services.
“Libraries Unlocked has truly unlocked the potential of our libraries to serve as vibrant hubs for learning, connection, and community development.”
Library staff are still available throughout the week to provide much valued support.
Feedback from customers has revealed that the service is particularly popular with working people and working parents who prefer to use the library at quieter times.
People looking to spend longer periods of time in the library have also benefited.
Anyone wishing to upgrade to Libraries Unlocked membership, will need to complete an induction, which can be organised by visiting the library in person or by calling 01905 822722.
Phase 2 of the programme is set to begin in the Autumn, rolling out the scheme to more libraries across Worcestershire.
