'Enjoy Your Borough' New Year's Resolutions, Part One: Use Your Local Library!
In the first of a series of posts here on mayordave.org.uk with suggestions for New Year's Resolutions on the theme of getting out and enjoying the facilities and attractions on offer in Bedford Borough, Mayor Dave Hodgson encourages everyone to use and enjoy their local library.
A recent national library survey found that over 300 libraries have closed across the country since 2011, but here in Bedford Borough under Mayor Dave the Council has managed to direct the huge savings it has had to make away from these fantastic, vital community facilities. In a marked contrast with the experience of many communities right across the country, there have been no library closures across the Borough and no reduction in opening hours.
Mayor Dave suggests that resolving to use and enjoy your local library would be a New Year's resolution it's a pleasure to stick to!
Mayor Dave says: "We're committed to continuing to support our libraries to provide a high quality service to people if all ages, and if more people use their local library, that will only help them go from strength to strength. Your local library is an amazing, free resource, so why not pop in next time you have a chance to see what it has to offer?'
"If getting to a library is difficult, we have of course also protected the mobile library which serves our rural areas. This is a service cherished by those who use it, offering a wide array of titles for people to borrow and enjoy without having to travel to and from one of the libraries.'
In addition, the virtual library is another fantastic, free resource for all Bedford Borough residents. Here, you can search for and request books, renew your borrowed books and much more. In addition, we have just introduced a major enhancement to the service, with free downloadable e-books now available for loan for the very first time! So, if you got a new tablet for Christmas, do have a look at the 900 titles that are currently on offer through the virtual library.'
"There are always a range of events taking place at our libraries, with groups and activities for people of all ages. If you haven't had a look in a while, do check out your local library again, and perhaps make it a resolution that will be a pleasure to keep!"
Here are some useful links: