With Bitterne Park’s local library currently closed, the friends group are launching a “small competition” and asking members of the community to “write a short story, a memory of their own experience” at Cobbett Road Library to help build a "collective account" of its value.

 

 

The Friends of Cobbett Road Library say they'd "like to take this time of closure to take stock and invite everyone to remember the library, how it has enriched our lives and what value it brings to the local community".

"We are launching a small competition and asking members of the community to write a short story, a memory of their own experience at the library. It can be you were a member of the local art group, or you visited as a child to borrow books; maybe you are a mum that attended the library toddler group or you volunteered at the library in past years. Whatever the view or experience, it is useful to build a collective account of the value of our local library."

The Friends group said they'd post on their website "short contributions (maximum 600 words) from members of the community between February and May 2021. In June, one of the contributions will be selected to receive a £10 voucher to be spent at October Books. "

"To submit your story please use this online form. If you would like to include a photo of you or a memory at the library, let us know."

As reported, charity SCiA has pulled out of running the library. It was to have closed as a result at the end of January, but the group then said it wouldn't run a 'Select and Collect' service during the month either "due to the 3rd National Lockdown".

The council said last month it hopes "to be able to find alternative ways of providing a community hub and library offer in due course," and Cllr Kaur, cabinet member for culture and homes, said the authority is "in discussions with a number of partners for a renewed community offer".

Previously
End of the road for Cobbett library?
No 'Select and Collect' service at Cobbett library during lockdown 3