Gloucestershire Libraries will be offering a free, warm and welcoming spaces in local communities across the county. Not all libraries are the same but all libraries will provide a basic offer that meets the requirements of the Warm and Welcome scheme.
Libraries are traditionally a place where people can go without judgement or cost, therefore we will continue to offer our usual services alongside the below.
The warm and welcome scheme means that when you visit, it will be:
- Free – the spaces will be free with no hidden costs;
- Warm – the spaces are heated and able to provide basic refreshments such as tea and coffee;
- Welcoming – the spaces are inclusive, non-judgmental spaces where everyone can expect a warm welcome from staff and volunteers; and
- Safe – as spaces we will abide by our usual safeguarding policies. We will make basic signposting information available to people who need further support and help.
We are offering:
- Warm, dry buildings with spaces to sit and keep warm
- Free access to the internet and wi-fi
- Places to charge your devices
- Signposting to advice and support
- Free activities such as homework help, knit and natter, library clubs
- Distribution or collection hubs for food, clothing etc
- Provision of hot drinks where this is possible
In addition to the above, there will be some localised schemes dependent on the nature of partners and size and location of the library.
For community libraries, please see their individual web pages: library locations and opening hours
