Free warm clothes, hygiene banks, community fridges stocked with free food, and hundreds of welcoming groups and events are amongst a wealth of offerings to be found in libraries across Torbay this winter.
Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs libraries in the county, is rolling out its Cold Days, Warm Libraries campaign for the third year running. The initiative is aimed at encouraging people into warm, friendly library spaces this Winter not only to help with their fuel bills and the cost of living but to combat isolation.
Libraries Unlimited’s Health and Wellbeing Manager Beth Harris said: “Everyone deserves to feel warm and connected during the colder times of the year, but sadly we know this isn’t always the case. Our libraries across Devon and Torbay will always be a welcome space for people to come in for free, with no obligations and no questions asked. We have comfy chairs, cosy nooks, hot drinks, engaging activities and events, and of course, a whole host of reading materials for the public to enjoy.
Some libraries are welcoming donations of clean, warm coats, clothing, and accessories for their Coat Rails. Anyone can also take an item of clothing for free, no questions asked.
Activities and services across multiple libraries include:
- Coat rails of donated clothing in Churston, Torquay and Paignton
- Free warm drinks in many libraries
- Hygiene banks offering stocks of donated shampoo, toothpaste, tampons and body wash
- School uniform swaps to help families save money and resources
- Gentle exercise classes aimed at keeping visitors warm and healthy
- Weekly clubs from Lego to knitting – there’s something for everyone
Willmott Dixon have kindly sponsored the weekly breakfast clubs happening at Torquay Library alongside additional coat rails and staff time to help out. Julian House, who run a range of accommodation and support services across the South West, have supported with coat donations for those most in need, aligning with their mission to support people who have been forced to live on the edges of society.
Participating libraries and offerings include:
Brixham – monthly breakfast clubs
Churston – coat rail, warm drinks, biscuits, soups, school uniform swap
Paignton – warm coat rail
Torquay – coat rail, warm drinks, soup/food, school uniform swap
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