Love Your Library

It would be easy to assume that in this age of ebooks, wifi and online gaming that our Victorian public libraries may have outlived their usefulness. But far from being left behind, these fantastic resources are as relevant to our modern communities as they ever have been.

“Where else can you find a friendly, open space with free access to information with expert staff who can help you find exactly what you want?” asks Elaine, who works at Kings Heath Library.

“We have a huge mix of people through the door, of all ages and ethnicities,” adds colleague Sam. “Many come in to use the computers, as well as to borrow books, and we’ve got an extensive local history collection including photos scanned from originals brought in by local people.” You won’t be able to find those on the internet.

Other assets include piano music, audio books, maps and a community room, available to hire at reasonable rates, for anyone who would like to put on an event. On Mondays it’s used by the Citizens’ Advice Bureau to give free debt advice, and on Fridays you can make an appointment for a free CV and job-hunting consultation.

Local schools also bring in their kids to explore the library’s resources. “Kids and young people still get very excited about books,” says Elaine, “particularly when the latest one comes on in a popular series like Horrid Henry. They all want to get their hands on it.” Being able to borrow the books for free is a real bonus for cash-strapped parents.

During term time, Monday afternoons are Book Time for under fives, where parents can bring in their little ones for stories and songs. During school holidays the library runs occasional craft activity sessions for over fives and there are plans afoot to start a Coder Club, encouraging kids to learn and practice writing computer code.

Kings Heath Library is open from 9 to 5 with late night opening until 7pm on Thursdays. It’s closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. For more details go to www.libraryofbirmingham.com/kingsheathlibrary or call 0121 464 1515.

Published in My Moseley and Kings Heath, April 2016.