Introduction

Case Study 3.1: The library as community hub

I’ve worked at my library for 22 years. In that time, I have seen lives changed and enhanced by our services. A bulk of my working day is spent within the children's library. I deliver two sessions a week for preschoolers and each of the groups are very well attended by committed children and parents. Some of the children I sang to when they were babies still come into the library each week and are engaging, bright, happy young adults. Recently, during a session, a child took his first steps. His mother and I were both thrilled and it was such a joyous moment to share. I’ve also been told by parents that their children took their first steps TOWARDS the library because they were so eager to come in. It's a hub for the community, a warm, welcoming, safe and friendly place for so many.

I love working on the registration desk. It's the first port of call for many new visitors and I enjoy welcoming people and signing them up. Whether it's a student new to the area, a long-time resident of Norfolk or just a holidaymaker needing to access the internet, we can help.

I serve people who have been made redundant after many years in the same job who are utterly petrified of applying for a new job. I try my best to put them at ease and give them the confidence to get on to a computer.