A CAMPAIGN to urge volunteers to come forward and save their local libraries has launched this month.

Libraries are recruiting volunteers to help with a variety of duties, from running children’s story sessions to helping customers and organising books.

There are currently ten community-managed libraries operating across North Yorkshire, with a further 20 planned as part of a reconfiguration of the service due to come into effect next year. This change is a direct result of cuts in government funding that have seen the library service budget reduced from £7.8m in 2010 to £4.3m in 2017 to 2018.

County councillor Chris Metcalfe said: “The response so far has been superb and I feel confident that the new community libraries will be in safe hands. However, we must not be complacent.

“This campaign is an important reminder of the need for more volunteers in all our libraries and I would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch. Regardless or your age, background or experience, everyone has something to contribute and a great deal to gain from volunteering.”

The campaign focuses on the real people who volunteer their time in North Yorkshire libraries. By sharing these stories, the County Council hopes other people will make the first move in contacting their local library. In return, libraries can offer people the chance to make a positive difference in their local community and the opportunity to learn valuable new skills.

Without volunteers, the proposed community libraries will close. All libraries, including those that will continue to be run by the county council, need volunteer involvement to maintain their current opening hours.

Visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/libraryvolunteers.