North Tyneside Council offers a warm welcome

North Tyneside libraries are set to open their doors as part of a network of almost a hundred Warm Welcome sessions launching across North Tyneside.

Running six days a week at the borough’s Customer First Centres and libraries, the local authority is inviting anyone who would like to, to use the facilities as a safe and warm place this winter.

Hot drinks, wi-fi, computer access, baby-friendly facilities, film and book clubs and board games are just some of the free things on offer

The Warm Welcome venues, which will be available from 1 November, form part of the council’s wider support to help people with the rising cost of living.

Cllr Sandra Graham, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “Our libraries and Customer First Centres are already much-valued facilities, so we’re pleased to be able to extend what’s already on offer.

“I would really encourage anyone who would like to use the spaces to come along – you can enjoy a chat and a free cuppa, find out about other support available from our friendly staff, join in with an activity or use the facilities as you wish.

“They are available to everyone – whether you’re working or not, retired or studying, everybody is very welcome to use and enjoy our facilities. Find out more on our website or pop into your local library for details.

“The rising cost of living is affecting many of us and the warm welcome you will receive in libraries is just one part of the package of support we are working on to help our residents.”

The local authority also offered a grant of up to £1,000 to community and voluntary sector organisations to help them cover the cost of running similar schemes. Those taking part will be encouraged to display a ‘warm welcome’ sticker in their venue and they are listed on the council’s website. There are almost one hundred sessions each week at the council and community venues.

For more information, visit our cost of living section, pop into your local library or Customer First Centre, or call 0345 2000 101.