LIBRARIES in Devon are throwing their doors open in welcome this winter, to provide a range of help, support, advice and comfort to people who may be struggling, or beginning to struggle with the rising cost of living.

A Devon County Council spokesperson said: ‘The ‘Libraries for Life’ campaign, launched by Libraries Unlimited which run Devon’s libraries on our behalf, will continue right through until March next year.’

‘More details can be found in the news story on our website, but some of libraries are providing:

warm spaces, where people are welcome to join and spend time in the library. Some will host sessions with advice about energy efficiency, debt advice and other topics

Otherwise, libraries are continuing to provide a home library service, for people who are housebound or who struggle to get to their library. Contact your local library or email [email protected] for more information.

Free baby weighing facilities are available at libraries in Ottery St Mary, Totnes, Ivybridge, Tavistock, Teignmouth, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, Exeter (St Thomas), Dawlish, Okehampton, Newton Abbot, Cullompton, Tiverton and Exmouth.

Libraries also provide a selection of Reading Well books, to support good mental and physical health, for children, teens and adults.

Most libraries provide free drop-in IT sessions, and Newton Abbot Library is also hosting Barclays once a week, to offer a free Digital Wings Programme to boost digital skills and confidence.

There are work clubs operating in Bideford, Barnstaple, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Crediton, Cullompton, Tiverton and Tavistock libraries, offering one-to-one support with CV writing, developing skills and applying for jobs.

Libraries are always looking for volunteers, and that’s a great way to meet new people and support you local community this winter, so if you have time spare, please contact your local library to enquire about volunteering.

Councillor Roger Croad, Cabinet Member responsible for libraries, said: ‘Our libraries have long been more than just buildings with books and CDs – they are centres within the hearts of communities that provide a range of help and support for their visitors.

‘I’m very pleased, as we’re approaching winter, and with food and energy costs rising, that many libraries are able still, despite rising costs also impacting on them, to continue to deliver support for local residents.”