Suffolk library services are coming to the Rushmere area of Ipswich for one afternoon a week.
The service will be running the “Library @ the Pavilion” at the new sports centre at Ransome’s Sports ground in Sidegate Avenue every Wednesday afternoon from 1.30pm to 4.30pm starting next week, March 14.
The sessions are part of the Suffolk Libraries Local scheme and have been funded by a £10,460 grant by the Borough’s North East Area Committee, with additional support from Suffolk County Councillor Sandra Gage through her locality funding.
Each week, residents will be able to borrow from a selection of books and can reserve books from the main Suffolk Libraries catalogue and use IT facilities.
There will also be a range of activities, including ‘singing and stories’ for pre-school children, a social group for older people and a homework club.
Ms Gage said: “I became aware last year that ‘pop-up libraries’ were being trialled elsewhere in Suffolk and approached Suffolk Libraries to see how I could work with them to set up one in North-East Ipswich.
“We have the perfect venue, our new Ipswich Council Ransomes Pavilion on Sidegate Avenue, literally sitting in the heart of our community, and I’m thrilled I’ve been able to bring libraries back to North East Ipswich for all to enjoy”
Area committee chair Shelly Darwin, said: “This is an important new library and community resource for north-east Ipswich. I want to urge local residents to go along to Ransomes on Wednesday, not only to take advantage of the books on offer, but also to join in some of the activities taking place there.”
Bruce Leeke, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said: “We are very pleased to be working with Ipswich Borough Council to deliver a new library service to this part of Ipswich.
“The new Suffolk Libraries Local session will aim to deliver a regular slice of library life to people in the Rushmere area with not just books but free computer access and regular children’s activities.
“We’re also very pleased to be able to extend the existing Suffolk Libraries Local session in Shotley until March 2019.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here