Somerton Library celebrates five years of being volunteer-led

Somerton Library has been a volunteer-led library for five years

An institute has called for more libraries to be protected from potential council cuts.

The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals say libraries are 'vital' high street service.

It comes as volunteer-led Somerton Library, Somerset, has been highlighted as 'excellent' in a review of English Public Libraries.

Jeremey Greenop, chair of Somerton Library trust said libraries are 'diversifying' to more than just books.

He told BBC Radio Somerset: "We formed the friends of Somerton Library because the council was making savings in 2011 and 2018.

"There was always a feeling in Somerton that the library would be kept going some how - even with the cuts.

"We have about 44 volunteers, from people who help on the computer systems to organising books.

"It's not just about books anymore, you can go to get your blood pressure taken or borrow a thermal heat camera to check how energy efficient your home is."

The library in Somerton is a fully community-led facility with the council allocating funding for the books, resources and wifi.

'Pivotal role'

Jo Cornish, interim CEO of Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals said she's "concerned" about more potential cuts to library services across the country.

She said: "Public libraries play a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity, lifelong learning, and the overall well-being of communities.

"They provide free resources, bridge the digital gap, and offer a space for learning and cultural enrichment."

The institute would work with councils and the government to protect what she called an "essential service" from cuts.

In a statement, Somerset Council said: "We work closely with a range of community library partners to deliver 13 of our 32 statutory libraries in their communities, most of which have paid and trained staff working alongside dedicated local volunteers.

"They enable additional opening hours, activities and events, as well as helping to raise funding for their local library."