Beyond Books

A Community Space

Salena Riley

South Ayrshire libraries are more than collections of books; they are vibrant community hubs that play a crucial role in the lives of South Ayrshire residents. With over 185,000 visits in the last year, these spaces are far from the hushed sanctuaries of the past, embracing a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere that fosters connection, learning, and wellbeing.

At the heart of South Ayrshire’s libraries lies a commitment to fostering a sense of community. Libraries are designed to be welcoming and accessible. Regular events and activities cater to a diverse range of interests, from book clubs and craft sessions to retro gaming and author talks. These gatherings provide opportunities for individuals to connect with like-minded people, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness in a recognised impartial and trusted place.

Joining the library has never been easier, and it’s free! You can join online, by phone or by visiting your local branch. Once you have your library membership and pin number, not only can you borrow books from one of the 11 static libraries and the mobile library, but you can also access two apps on your PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone – Libby and PressReader. Libby gives you free access to ebooks and audiobooks, expanding the range of books available to you. PressReader is also free, providing access to over 7,000 newspapers and magazines, from 120 countries in 60 languages. One of our library staff uses PressReader to read craft magazines from other countries that she wouldn’t otherwise be able to access.

The Libby and PressReader apps also have accessibility functions and tools to assist with sensory impairments. Staff in libraries can help you with downloading the apps onto your device.

Social isolation is a growing problem in many communities and, as a library service, we are actively working to address this issue by offering a variety of programmes and services, creating spaces where people can come together, interact, and build relationships. Whether it’s a friendly chat with staff, joining others for the Tea and Talk sessions, or participating in a community activity, South Ayrshire libraries provide a platform for social interaction and connection.

A library user recently reported that the highlight of her 90-year-old gran’s week are her trips to the library, as she loves coming to have a chat and to get new books.

Research has shown that reading and other library activities have a positive impact on mental and physical health. In South Ayrshire, libraries offer an environment where individuals can escape the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in a good book. Reading has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved cognitive function, and enhanced empathy.

In addition to free access to reading (including audio books, large print, fiction and non-fiction), libraries in South Ayrshire host a range of programmes and services that promote health and wellbeing. Over 120 activities and sessions are held regularly across our 11 libraries, including:

• Community groups and local agency drop-ins, such as digital sessions with Voluntary Action South Ayrshire (VASA), health drop-in sessions with the Community Link Practitioners, plus craft, poetry, writing and recycling groups.
• Library-run Retro Gaming, Code Clubs and Gizmo & Gadgets activities, and regular Tea & Talk sessions.
• Book clubs, history group, youth sessions, Bookbug sessions for ages 0-5, and themed activities including Book Week Scotland and Bookbug week.
• Local History at Carnegie Library, Ayr – currently open every Tuesday evening 5pm-7pm and Thursday afternoon 2pm-5pm.
• Our mobile library service, which visits 33 rural villages, locations and schools. Find out where and when by visiting
  our website.

South Ayrshires libraries are used by a diverse range of individuals and groups, including:

• Families: Parents and children can enjoy Bookbug sessions, craft activities, and access to a wide range of books and resources.
• Young people and students: Each library offers study space, free computer and wi-fi access and printing services (a small charge is involved for printing).
• Older adults: We provide a welcoming space for older adults to socialise, participate in activities, and access information and support.
• Third and public sector organisations: We partner with local charities and community groups to deliver programmes and services, such as English language and digital sessions, and information sessions.
• Health professionals: Libraries collaborate with healthcare providers to promote health literacy and support patients’ well-being, including Hearing Aid support, NHS Staying Ahead of the Curve, and talks from local agencies.
• Schools and Early Years: Many schools and early years in South Ayrshire regularly visit their local library – whether it be to get a new book to read or for story time, local library visits have been shown to have the potential to strengthen children’s confidence around books and library usership. It also supports them to further develop their reader identities alongside their enjoyment of reading.
  
  

At Girvan library, we have South Ayrshire’s Lend and Mend Hub, one of only nine in Scotland. The Hub was funded by John Lewis’ £1million ‘Circular Future Fund’ which is raised from the carrier bag levy and is managed by Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC).

Lend and Mend hubs bring people together to reuse, share and repair items, so they can do their bit for the environment while saving money and resources for their families and communities.

In addition to the established Mending Hub at Girvan Library, the Lending Hub will launch in 2025 with a non-traditional lending collection to expand the library’s borrowable resources. Customers will be able to borrow high-cost items for free, contributing to the circular economy and encouraging library users to reuse and repair.

Following a growing trend of knitted and crocheted clothing and bags worn by celebrities, we now offer crochet sessions for 9–16-year-olds who are eager to learn how to make their own. Sessions are available at Forehill, Prestwick and Carnegie (Ayr) libraries. Check the website for details of how to book.

At Carnegie Library in Ayr we have partnered with Recycling Saturday Prestwick to run a monthly ‘Re-make with Recycling Saturday’ craft session, where participants use preloved materials and craft items to create something new. We also have recycling banks at various libraries for items including used toner cartridges, bra banks, Halloween and Christmas outfits.

This year we will launch the Stay Connected project, a digital workshop experience, which will offer sessions on cyber safety, shopping online, hobbies, health, and more. Check your local library or online to find out more.

South Ayrshire’s libraries are much more than just places to borrow books. They are free, accessible, and vibrant community spaces that offer a wide range of services and activities. By fostering connection, promoting learning, and improving wellbeing, South Ayrshire libraries are making a meaningful contribution to the health and vitality of their communities.

As reported by the preliminary findings of the 2024 report ‘The Value and Impact of Scotland’s Libraries’, nowhere else in modern life, whether urban or rural, is there a public space where anyone can enter and remain without the expectation of payment or labour. Nowhere else is there a public space where people can access information, combat digital poverty, learn new skills, socialise with others, express themselves creatively and seek to self-improve, entirely for free.

To find out more visit south-ayrshire.gov.uk/libraries or Facebook, Instagram or X (formerly Twitter) @salibriaries