Brent's libraries see upsurge in members

More than 4,000 people have signed up to Brent's libraries in the past three months.

This is partly due to the decision by Brent Council to make the service open seven days a week. It means there are now 62,478 active users - defined as someone who borrowed a book, CD, DVD or has used a computer or online resource in the past 12 months.

Some of the people to have joined up recently may have taken on flats to rent in Brent. Part of the reason for the increase in numbers is the Every Brent Child a Reader campaign, which has seen schools in the area encouraged to sign up pupils to a specific site.

Councillor James Powney, lead member for environment and neighbourhood services, said: "The membership figures show that Brent's libraries are going from strength-to-strength. Not only are all six libraries open seven days a week, but they are running fantastic events such as talks by authors, activities for children and young people, as well as wonderful storytelling, cultural and other learning events for our residents."

Mr Powney went on to note Brent Council is investing money in all of its sites in an effort to make them brighter and better. It is hoped this will make the spaces more attractive for residents looking to study and socialise.

Homework clubs at the libraries are also attracting their best-ever attendance rates. In the autumn term of 2011, some 925 children came along and this was up on the 746 who were there during the previous term.

Attendees can get reference and national curriculum books up to Key Stage 5, a study space, computer support and workbooks.

Mr Powney stated these clubs are one of the success stories of the library service. Since a qualified teacher was brought in to run the classes, there has been an upsurge in popularity. He added young people, adults and families are now being offered a lot through their local libraries.

Posted by Chris Price

Published 10th July, 2012

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