At the heart of every strong community lies a public library. We spoke to Wandsworth Town Library’s recently appointed manager Lizzie Ayres to find out what makes our local book nook so special, and we discussed their upcoming move.
Hi Lizzie! What does Wandsworth Town Library offer our community?
It sounds cliché but there really is something for everyone at Wandsworth Town Library. We have people from all walks of life come to us for a quiet place to work or study. Our public computers get a lot of use.
Some people think libraries are gloomy, solemn places, but we have lovely chatty social groups people learn new skills, like knitting or speaking German.
We also have messy craft days for little ones! There’s something going on every single day and it’s brilliant to see people’s expressions when they see our activity posters. They go, “I didn’t know libraries did that sort of thing”.
We hear you’re moving to a shiny new building. Can you tell us more?
Yes, we’re moving. Not very far, though. We’ll be behind B&Q right next to where we currently are.
I can’t wait for people to see it. There are some really special features our users are going to love. I particularly love the Children’s Library; it’s big and bright, and the design is lovely. I shan’t spoil any surprises…
You recently celebrated Children’s Book Week, how did it go?
We just read Malamander by Thomas Taylor for Children’s Reading Group, and we all loved it. I’m almost thirty and I’ve reserved a copy of the sequel. It’s a mystery series set in a spooky seaside town, with a monster in it. What more could you want in a book?
How important are libraries to communities?
Libraries are a space for everyone. I could go on and on about the benefits of libraries. Reading is so good for your brain and your stress levels, but libraries go far beyond books.
I think the main thing is everyone has access to a wealth of information. We have information on health and wellbeing, we have IT help sessions, we have community police drop-ins. Things like these are not unique to us. Libraries everywhere do their best to help their communities, tackle loneliness, and signpost to other services. Libraries are so close to my heart. They are such pleasant spaces, full of curiosity and learning and, of course, lovely staff.
What are you reading at the moment?
I’ve just started A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske. A customer recommended it to me actually.
What’s your favourite thing about Wandsworth Town?
There’s a genuine sense of community life here. Wandsworth Town really puts an effort into celebrating local culture and history. There are lots of small businesses, there’s the Arts Fringe, there’s the Heritage Festival, and a wealth of events that bring people together and make full use of all the interesting things in their area.
Wandsworth Town Library can currently be found on Garratt Lane, SW18 4AQ. Follow them on Instagram for more information on events and book recommendations.
