Keys handed over to Derby's first Community Managed Library

Girl reading in library

Sinfin Library is due to reopen as a Community Managed Library Monday 14 May

Fri 4 May 2018

Plans for Sinfin Library to become the city’s first Community Managed Library are moving forward as Derby City Council hand the keys over to Direct Help and Advice (DHA).

Work will take place over the coming weeks to prepare the building for services to resume on Monday 14 May. The Council will also carry out training for staff and volunteers during this time, to make sure library services run as smoothly as possible once reopened.

Customers can access and reserve books at other libraries in Derby during the closure and eBooks will continue to be available 24/7.

Sinfin Library is one of ten libraries the Council will transition over to DHA as part of plans to deliver a successful and financially sustainable library service for Derby.

The remaining nine proposed Community Managed Libraries will also be transferred to DHA as part of a phased process, which is expected to be completed by Christmas.

The local charity has partnered with Citizens Advice South Derbyshire and City and Community Action Derby to provide the local community with services beyond borrowing books. They will offer help on areas including specialist legal advice and managing debt as well as playing a vital role in recruiting volunteers.

Other partners involved in the project are Derbyshire Community Bank, Women’s Work, Derby University and the Padley Centre.

For more information please contact Suzanne Walker from Direct Help and Advice on 01332 287850, or if you would like to get involved in volunteering at a Community Managed Library, please contact Community Action Derby on 01332 346266.

Information on library services and more information about Community Managed Libraries can be found on the In Derby Libraries pages.