An award-winning network of community volunteers are planning a fun-packed programme of events for the spring including children’s holiday activities, author talks and more.

The trustees and volunteers at Northfields Community Library, in Northfield Avenue, were recognised for their outstanding contributions at the Ealing Community Network’s voluntary sector awards and won the award for ‘organisation led by volunteers.

In addition to the usual library services of borrowing books and accessing computers, the volunteers are developing a hub of activities that will offer something for everyone and attract more visitors.

The volunteers already provide sessions such as rhyme time, digital skills classes and social events including knit and natter and book club.

‘More than just a library’

Emma Bailey has been working as a volunteer at the library for about 2 years. She has enjoyed building friendships and discovering lots more about what’s happening in her local area.

She said: “I feel that a library is a very important part of the community, especially for children. I think the joy of working in this library is that is more than just a library. We offer a lot of events and activities, I do the rhyme time session every fortnight and I love it.”

The library also hosts other services such as the Ealing Repair Café, MacMillan welfare benefits advice service and Borough of Ealing Art Trail (BEAT) artists.

Most activities are free, but there is a small charge for evening events, and donations are welcome. You can also show your support by subscribing to become a Friend of the library, which gives you perks for a small monthly fee.

Trustee member, Angie Bell, said: “The trustees are grateful for all the local support we have had since setting up in 2019, especially from volunteers and Friends. However, additional help is always welcome, so if you have some spare time to volunteer, or if you would like to become a Friend, or hire space in the library, please get in touch.