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Starbeck Library has been kept going by volunteers since 2017 when the era of austerity led to major budget cuts by the then North Yorkshire County Council.

With up to 30 members of the public doing the work in a shift system, Starbeck Library has done more than keep its head above water.

The dedication of volunteers of all ages has been paying off.

Celebrating a job well done - Volunteers at the new children's area at Starbeck Library including Peter Davies, Donna Birstow, Abby Pullen, Sheila Broon and Ann Lewsley. (Picture Gerard Binks)

With the support of the county council in terms of books and IT services, the numbers of visitors to the library at 68a High Street, Starbeck rose to 18,676.

But volunteers have been keen to upgrade the facilities for younger readers to help ensure a long-term future.

This Saturday will see the grand opening of a new, improved play area for children.

Peter Davies, Chair of Starbeck Community Library, said they were delighted by the refurbishment and grateful to one of their volunteers, in particular.

The bright and attractive new children's area at Starbeck Library in Harrogate which has been transformed with the aid of a £6,000 grant from the National Lottery. (Picture Gerard Binks)

"Tina Harper, who looks after the children’s area, has managed the project from start to finish,” said Mr Davies.

"She not only drew up our successful bid to the National Lottery Community Fund for the refurbishment, she also painted the "once upon a time" pictures on the wall" herself."

The end result, Peter Davies said, is a library fit for young ones.

"The new children's play area looks superb,” he said.

"It's bright, colourful and child-friendly and has all new furniture and furnishings."

The refurbishment was aided by Amara Jane Furnishing Ltd on the High Street, Starbeck, which built all the furniture, by the local Post Office which donated £500 and by the generosity of the local Homebase off Hookstone Chase.

Starbeck Library: Opening hours

Monday: 2pm to 5pm

Tuesday: 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm

Wednesday: 2pm to 5pm

Thursday: closed

Friday: 2pm to 5pm

Saturday: 9:30am to 12:30pm

Sunday: closed

Starbeck Library is on one floor and all areas are accessible to wheelchair users.

A disabled toilet and a changing place are available.

More information at: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/leisure-tourism-and-culture/libraries/local-libraries/starbeck-community-library

Much-loved community library in Harrogate's stunning £6,000 refurbishment thanks to the National Lottery