This month I spoke in Westminster Hall about the future of our public libraries.
Libraries go far beyond lending books. They are warm, welcoming spaces during the winter months, places for students to study, and hubs for community engagement, learning and wellbeing. From access to digital services, to specialist research support from librarians, to thoughtful local schemes like Croxley Green Library’s winter slipper swap programme, libraries quietly but powerfully transform lives.
Although Rickmansworth Library remains closed following the recent fire. I am continuing to work closely with Hertfordshire County Council to get the site restored and reopened as soon as possible.
We must also look to the future. Areas like Leavesden currently don’t have access to a local library at all. That needs to change.
Every community deserves a safe, warm and accessible space to read, learn and connect.
