They've given more than 35,000 hours of their time
Dedicated volunteers have given more than 35,000 hours of their time during the last year to help run Merton’s libraries.
Around 530 volunteers are involved in supporting the borough’s seven libraries as well as the home library service and other borough-wide initiatives.
They are responsible for a variety of tasks including supporting customers, delivering activities and promoting the library service. Volunteers come from all parts of Merton and reflect the borough’s diversity.
Volunteers were invited to a recent event at the Civic Centre in Morden where certificates of recognition and awards were presented by the Mayor of Merton, Councillor Brenda Fraser, the Cabinet Member for Community and Culture, Councillor Nick Draper and Khadiru Mahdi, Chief Executive of Merton Voluntary Service Council.
Janina Craske, who won the Outstanding Contribution Award said: “I have always loved books and reading and libraries. I enjoy volunteering at Raynes Park Library because it makes me feel part of the community.”
Councillor Draper said: “This event was our opportunity to say thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who give their time to provide an excellent service for library members. Their hard work and commitment has helped to ensure that our library service is among the best in London.
“The nationally recognised volunteering model of Merton libraries plays an important role in supporting our volunteers to develop new skills which have helped some back into employment and enabled others to get more involved in their community. I am proud to be a library volunteer myself and would encourage others to get involved too.”
For more information about volunteering in Merton libraries, visit volunteering opportunities webpage.
November 23, 2016