Lancashire's libraries open up to offer warmth - and plenty more besides this winter
Lancashire's libraries are once again acting as ‘warm spaces’ for people struggling to heat their homes during the winter months.
This year, however, the Lancashire County Council scheme is not just offering a place of warmth, but plenty for people to do while they are there.
The initiative, which is now in its fourth year, was set up as the cost-of-living crisis began to bite, amid concern that some Lancashire residents would be unable to afford to stay warm during the day.
Libraries were promoted as places where people in that situation could enjoy a free hot drink and find company.
But the county council is stressing that there are also activities on offer to keep all library visitors occupied this winter - as well as access to free computers and Wi-Fi, along with all the books people would expect. Details about the local support on offer to vulnerable residents.
County Coun Daniel Matchett, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, visited Burnley Library to mark the start of the 2025/26 warm spaces scheme, where he met residents taking part in ‘Top To Toe’ weekly exercise sessions, aimed at all ages and abilities, to improve heart and muscle strength. He also saw families taking part in Story Time, a weekly reading and singing session for pre-school children.
"Warm spaces is such an important scheme as it helps members of the public to try out new hobbies and activities, make new friends, enjoy a hot drink and stay warm during the winter months.
"It brings people together and helps to reduce isolation for a lot of residents. It was really nice to meet participants at some of the Library sessions today and hear about how much they value these classes, getting involved and getting healthy.
"Anyone who visits our libraries will always receive a very warm welcome and our staff are in touch with other local organisations to offer further support if they need it,. County Council Matchett added. "
Lancashire’s libraries welcome a variety of people into their warm spaces, including families, retired residents, people experiencing homelessness and those working remotely.
Sophie Denton, an assistant at Burnley Library, urged members of the public to come along and find out more.
She said: "As part of the warm spaces scheme, we want to encourage families and individuals to enjoy the spaces and learn something new.
"We've got family clubs on, things for children, and things that you wouldn't believe happens in a library! Music events, mic nights, exercise classes, STEM, you name it, it's anything off the top of your head! We're always interested to hear what the community needs next."
A full list of Lancashire County Council-run libraries - which excludes those in the Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen council areas - can be found here.