What would you say at this gathering?

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I have a volunteering role in a community library. I sort of fell into it 8 years ago when the council was closing the local one.

It has been really hard work. Lots of infighting. Not much joy. I've kept going as no one else would do it and without it, there'd be no library within 15 miles.

Now finally someone else has agreed to lead and I'm stepping down with relief.

On Monday it's my last meeting and I'll be expected to say a few words. But what shall I say?

It's not like a leaving do where I'd thank people for being lovely colleagues (they're pains!) and even if I talk about all we've achieved there'll be raised eyebrows and eye rolling from one or two (as an example, I've made sure we're a library for all - with a kids section, young adults, easy reading, books in the news/on tv etc - one member says I promote filth - he was referring to the One of Us Is Lying books! - another thinks kids have no place in libraries).

What would you say in these circs?

I’d go with facts- it’s been 7 years since I stepped up to lead this group, and in that time we have x y and z. I am now looking forward to being able to enjoy the library as just another local user… and I wish new leader Jane smith all the very best.

I think if your audience is likely to eye roll, keep it as short and factual as you can. Something like:

"As you know, this is my last meeting as Library Head. I'd like to thank everyone for helping to keep the library going over the last eight years, despite the many challenges along the way. Sarah Smith has kindly stepped up to lead the team moving forwards - I'm sure you'll all join me in thanking Sarah and wishing her the best.'

Let them eye roll.

Talk about what you like and what you're proud of. Let them mutter an eye roll all they like. Fuck em.

If you want to take swipes at people, go for it, especially if you're not going to see them again.

"And even though some pathetic and feeble minded arseholes didn't want children in the library...Derek...we expanded the kids section anyway." (Well, maybe not, but I'd be tempted...)

I’ve had to do something not dissimilar on a few occasions.

I’d suggest you either keep it very factual as others have said, or you concentrate on what does unite you all despite the differences and be a bit head girl about that: “I know that we’re all passionate about ensuring that there is still a library in this village and that people get to read/people who can’t afford books get to read/people get to discover new worlds through books… and despite many challenges I’m so proud of the way we’ve kept this vital service going. [Add something nice a service user said to you]. I’m so grateful to Jane for taking over leadership and I know we wish her all the best”.

Tell them you have learnt so much from them all.

Something like this: