Libraries as warm spaces

[Emberness]

Hi

I have started using my nearest library to keep warm during the day. Am I the only one?

What do you do in the library all day? If working that seems a good idea to save on fuel costs.

I do some work, but my job is part time. I read magazines and books, have also joined a games club and book club

I'm a part time uni student. I usually do course work at home but I have been going to the library. I get a nice coffee and a quiet warm space to work (or browse MN!) I don't know why I didn't do it before. I am saving a lot on my heating bills.

A number of warm hubs have opened near me in libraries and community centres. People are welcome to go along to work, chat, do homework, eat etc in a community warm space.

I don't think you will be the only one there going regularly and spending the whole day as even years ago when I was a student there were always people sitting for hours day in day out reading newspapers and magazines.

What do you do about lunch? The nearest big library has a cafe but our local one doesn’t. Or loos.

My local library advertises itself as a warm space, heating on tea and coffee ext. they know people are struggling

In the village I live in the parish council has made an agreement that people can go and sit in warm spaces for a few hours every day without needing to buy anything. One of these is the library, then there are church halls and cafes involved too as the library is not open 9-5 every day. There is basically at least one of these available each day and an advertised list, so people don't have to sit at home and be cold.

Check local churches too. In my area at least many are offering when they can, warm spaces with free unlimited tea and coffee, entertainment(board games, jigsaws,books etc) and sometimes a free or low cost(Donations are not compulsory) lunch of soup or sandwiches. One is also offering a cheap hot meal in the evening and kids eat free(Again the small donation is not compulsory and all are welcome.

We have warm and welcome hubs for exactly this, set up in libraries and any other community groups who are willing.

My library has public loos and I bring sandwiches..they don't mind.

That’s great if they allow you to take your own food.