Belsize Library set to issue first cards for members, as Edith Bowman and Michael Palin back Keats branch fund-raising event
Thursday, 31st May 2012
Published: 31 May, 2012
by DAN CARRIER
NEW library cards are set to be issued to members of Camden’s third community-run library to open this year.
The former Belsize Library, in Antrim Grove, lost all its funding from the Town Hall at the end of March and has been closed while The Winch, the community centre in Swiss Cottage, finalised plans to run it.
It is now due to open its doors on Wednesday. Members will also be able to borrow books from Primrose Hill Library, another branch cast off by the Town Hall.
The new head at the library is Gloria Charles, who has worked in the charity sector.
Currently, internet and phones are being tested, and a new book loan system – linked to Primrose Hill – is being installed.
The library will open two days a week until the end of the month, when there are plans to operate a three-day week.
Ms Charles said: “We are currently appointing a librarian who should be ready for the end of June.”
Groups are invited to use the library. “We want to use the space for activities that offer a social benefit,” Ms Charles said. “That could be classes to help people learn new things or activities that bring people together.
“Great libraries are the hub of every community. We’re inviting ideas for activities and events that will be of benefit to people. This is a chance to help shape the library so that it delivers events and activities you care about most.”
The Winch director Paul Perkins, who with the help of the Friends of Belsize Library put together the bid to run the branch, said: “We are delighted to be reopening the building and hope over time to develop a diverse range of activities and events that complement the core library service.
“The library will initially be opening on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. In the meantime, there will be a ‘call for submissions’ to run projects and activities that deliver social benefit during a trial period which will continue until the end of August.”
Meanwhile, Keats Community Library – formerly the Heath Library in Keats Grove, Hampstead – has held an event to celebrate its takeover by volunteers, the Phoenix Group.
Radio presenter Edith Bowman and actor Michael Palin cut a ribbon to announce the library’s new lease of life.
They were joined by Hampstead dignitaries, including actors Tracy-Ann Oberman, Tom Conti, Gemma Jones and Arabella Weir and former England cricket captain Mike Brearley. The event raised more than £2,500.
Library trustee Stephen Bobasch said: “More than 1,200 locals have joined, but the principal task of raising enough money to protect the future of the library has only just begun.”
