VOLUNTEERS who run the former Eastville library as a community space have launched a fundraising campaign to help secure its future.
The Old Library building on Muller Road was taken over as a community asset by a group of residents ten years ago.
To mark the anniversary the group has launched a “10+ fundraiser”, encouraging supporters to donate £10 or more. Members hope to raise £5,000 towards some important building improvements and cover rising running costs.
The Old Library, Eastville Community Hub is part of the South Lockleaze and Purdown Neighbourhood Group Community Interest Company, a non-profit organisation set up to manage the former council building.
The volunteers run monthly activities, including a repair cafe and quiz, along with larger-scale family-friendly events. A recent event, the Purdown Sessions, was a daytime gig showcasing local musicians.
On Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays the building is open to the public from 9am to 3pm and hosts a cafe run by a resident, selling breakfast and lunch.
It is also hired out for community workshops and classes including yoga, a book club and pottery classes.
The 10-year celebrations started in May, with a fun day including bouncy castles, games and a scavenger hunt, entertainment and music. A party is planned on September 12 with more music and a barbecue. All money raised at events goes towards the running costs of the building, which is available to hire by contacting hire@theoldlibrary.org.uk.
Kate, one of the volunteers said: “The Old Library is a very special place & we are thrilled to have reached the 10 year milestone which absolutely couldn’t have happened without support from the local community. The upcoming events are a chance to say thank you and also recognise everyone who has contributed to this amazing community hub.”
Also marking the anniversary is an eye-catching mural from local artist Vicky Clark AKA Vikoi.
She said “I paint robots and nature together, a mixture we have often been told are opposites. The Library hosts so many diverse community groups and is surrounded by the green space of South Purdown and Stoke Park. I wanted to tell that story on the wall.”
People can donate to the 10+ Fundraiser online at www.theoldlibrary.org.uk.