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Coleford Library’s winning proposal, Library Community Link, sets out to establish and maintain a library within the New Forest of Dean Community Hospital in Coleford which serves primarily older patients on long-term stays. The initiative will provide access to large print books, board games, audiobooks, music CDs, and the equipment needed to enjoy these resources from the comfort of patients’ rooms. With the project already underway, the award will be instrumental in helping bring their vision to life.
In addition to Coleford Library, several school libraries and young library volunteers were recognised, along with two other shortlisted county library projects:
Oakley Book Club at the Oakley Interactive Space, which aims to boost community engagement through book clubs, storytelling sessions, and borrow boxes.
The Library Adventurer’s League at Quedgeley, Tuffley, and Matson Libraries, blending gaming with books and storytelling to deliver social and educational benefits.
Each of these projects will receive £1,000 to support their development.
The awards were presented by renowned author Cressida Cowell, who gave an impassioned speech about the urgent need for access to books.
The David Vaisey Trust is a registered charity supported entirely by voluntary contributions, and administers annual Awards that recognise and reward outstanding initiatives by Gloucestershire public and school libraries – initiatives that result in more people reading more books. This year’s ceremony held special meaning following the passing of David Vaisey, CBE, in January. His legacy and unwavering support for libraries continues to inspire the library community.
Read more on the David Vaisey Award - davidvaiseyawards.co.uk
