Call for volunteers to help boost library hours

City Central Library moved to its new home at Smithfield in Hanley in October 2023

Library bosses are hoping to recruit more volunteers in a bid to extend services in Stoke-on-Trent.

The city council said it wanted to increase opening hours at all six of its public libraries and deliver additional services.

The libraries already offer services such as book loans, IT facilities, digital support sessions and activities for children, families and adults.

Under the proposals, a book delivery service for people who struggle to leave their homes would be expanded, and new services such as befriending would be introduced, the council said.

The libraries would be open for an average of 185 hours per week, an increase on the current 148 hours per week.

The plans would mean reintroducing late night opening, as well as City Central, Longton, Stoke and Tunstall libraries being open every Saturday.

'Libraries can do more'

Councillor Alastair Watson, a cabinet member at the city council, said feedback from residents suggested people wanted to see libraries open for longer hours.

"With volunteers, libraries can do more and be open more," he said.

"The city council would not only be able to extend the opening hours at all of its libraries but also introduce additional services for families, and children and adults who may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation."

Volunteers would help with customer service, digital support, stock and events.

People are now being asked to submit their feedback on the plans and register their interest in volunteering.