Mel Stride MP has praised plans to transform an unused outdoor area at Crediton Library into a ‘Community Garden’ to support the local community, by enhancing the well-being of current and future users of all ages.
Sue Lee, Crediton Library Supervisor, recently welcomed Mel Stride to Crediton Library and filled him in on the plans and vision for the outdoor space. The function and design of the community garden has evolved from discussions with individuals and community groups led by Sue. The Crediton Library Community Garden would provide an outdoor space where people can relax, read and chat, enjoying the view of Newcombes Meadow – the green space, the wildlife, and the flowers and plants both in the park and the library garden. With many people wanting to visit the library but still feeling uneasy about doing so, despite the excellent social distancing and safety precautions that have been put in place, a functioning outside space would offer a different dimension.
The library has currently raised £5,000 towards their £8,000 goal and Crediton Library are very appreciative of all the generous donations so far, including all the fundraising events put on by The Friends of Crediton Library. Mel is encouraging local residents who would value a garden at the library, and can afford to make a donation, to do so. Donations can be made by cheque (payable to Libraries Unlimited South West, the registered charity who are responsible for running Devon and Torbay Libraries) or in cash and handed in at Crediton Library on Belle Parade.
Sue explained:
“We think a garden space would encourage visitors of all ages to not just drop in briefly to pick up a book but to spend more time here, even socialising with friends or neighbours. The garden is more important than ever now. Sadly we had to stop our twice-monthly dementia support group and our knitting group which helps to combat loneliness because these were held indoors. An outdoor space with a proper seating area would potentially enable us to start these and some other events up again.”
Mel said:
“I was very grateful for Sue updating me in on her plans which would make a huge difference to the library.”
