WANT TO RUN A PROJECT IN THE LIBRARY?
THE PEOPLE of Crystal Palace are being invited to put forward their own ideas to help bring extra revenue into Upper Norwood joint library.
The Upper Norwood Library Trust are launching a Community Innovation Fund as part of its pilot in the library.
It will be used to encourage local groups to bring forward their ideas as to how the space could be used to increase footfall into the building, provide more activities and if possible, generate more income.
The Trust intends to make four grants of around £500. They will be made available to local groups who came forward with ideas for events and activities that could be run in the library on a pilot basis to test demand.
“This forms part of our partnership with Eco Communities who will help administer the fund” said a trust spokeswoman.. “In addition to a grant we aim to offer rent-free accommodation for an initial period and assistance in applying for grants, contracts etc.to carry on and develop the activity.”.
Eco Communities run four libraries in the borough of Lewisham – Sydenham, Crofton, Grove Park and the Pepys library at Deptford.
CEO Darren Taylor says: “At Crofton we had someone who volunteered and did ESOL (English as a second language) lessons. “That’s allowed them to apply for funding and they are getting paid to deliver ESOL lessons to 50 people – with 25 per cent of the money they are getting
going towards renting space there.
“At the Pepys library we have maths and English classes on Saturdays.
“Last Saturday we had someone who got Arts Council funding to do a big story festival at Sydenham – which has kids’ drama classes.
“The Friends of Home Park and the Friends of Sydenham library raised capital funding to do the park – and create a reading piazza in the park outside the entrance to the library.
“Here at Upper Norwood we are talking to the library staff and asking them what works – because they know. “They know what they are doing already – and what’s missing in the building.
“We know that Upper Norwood Library has already run a successful digital inclusion project – IT training for older people and those looking for employment – and that is another area that we want to continue to develop.
“It’s about working together to create the sustainability side of
things – how we can increase the revenue.”
Laura Wright, who chairs Upper Norwood Library Trust says: “We are delighted to be able to announce the Community Innovation Fund as part of our pilot in the library.”
Further reading: sydenhamlibrary.wordpress.com includes a fascinating history of Sydenham library.
