Long relationship with Kent Libraries

I joined Kent Libraries so far back that I can't remember when. But I used it, particularly when my daughter was small, when we'd go into the (old) children's library. Going in to the library was a regular part of my weekend routine. In later life, I've enjoyed being a volunteer there, mostly with Baby Rhymes. It's been really lovely to get to know the mums and toddlers, as well as working with the library staff, and understanding their pressures. My Reading Group has also used the library to source books - we do this as much from philosophy - support community resources - as financial. We were sad that Libraries weren't adaptable enough to take up our offers of books that we'd bought over lockdown that we thought would benefit other groups. The library ordering service of books for our group has gone up and down. At the moment, it's a real good service, although the group have to be careful which books we choose - some surprising gaps sometimes. However, a coup was them once providing 10 new copies of a hardback Booker prizewinner. Amazing!

I think the use of technology in libraries has worked well, except for the "ask a librarian"service. I got a reply from one in Texas once, who had no idea what I was talking about! But ordering books to take out is so easy. And I use Libby (it's like Kindle) more and more.

I also use family history websites a lot, and was pleased that Ancestry was available from home during lockdown. This has changed, and I'm disappointed that you need to go into the library to use it. Life is not so social, as busy as it was and more things are done at home (especially as you get older). It means that you don't notice that library hours of opening do change.

Libraries are a vital focal point in the community, and I'm pleased to be part of that community.