A new library service will be launched next week in Ipswich.

Called “Library @ the Pavilion”, the initiative will run every Wednesday from 14th March, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, at the Ransomes Sports Pavilion in Sidegate Avenue.

The sessions are part of the Suffolk Libraries Local scheme and have been funded by a £10,460 grant by the Borough’s North East Area Committee, with additional support from Suffolk County Councillor Sandra Gage through her locality funding.

Each week, residents will be able to borrow from a selection of books and can reserve books from the main Suffolk Libraries catalogue and use IT facilities.

There will also be a range of activities, including ‘singing and stories’ for pre-school children, a social group for older people and a homework club.

The Chair of the Area Committee, Councillor Shelly Darwin, said: “This is an important new library and community resource for north-east Ipswich. I want to urge local residents to go along to Ransomes on Wednesday, not only to take advantage of the books on offer, but also to join in some of the activities taking place there.”

Bruce Leeke, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said: “We are very pleased to be working with Ipswich Borough Council to deliver a new library service to this part of Ipswich. The new Suffolk Libraries Local session will aim to deliver a regular slice of library life to people in the Rushmere area with not just books but free computer access and regular children’s activities. We’re also very pleased to be able to extend the existing Suffolk Libraries Local session in Shotley until March 2019.”

The Library @ the Pavilion service will be officially opened at a special event at 1.30pm on Wednesday 14th March. The Press is invited to attend.

There is more information about Suffolk Libraries Local at www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/local

Further comment:

Cllr Shelly Darwin, tel: 07950 641063

Cllr Ian Fisher, opposition Conservative Group Leader, tel: 01473 410124

Cllr Inga Lockington, opposition Liberal Democrat Group Leader, tel: 01473 213444