Social enterprise appointed to run community libraries

Community and social development specialists Sporting Communities has been appointed to run community libraries across Derby.

The social enterprise will create a trust to operate the city’s 10 non-statutory libraries after it agreed leases with the Derby City Council, which will provide a financial support package to operate them.

Founded in 2012, Sporting Communities is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company that specialises in youth work and sports development.

It uses local parks and sports fields to help people get involved in sports and other activities

Other areas of expertise include bringing children and families together through play, the arts, heritage and events and an award-winning training academy for young entrepreneurs.

It has been recognised for its effectiveness in preventing youth crime and promoting social inclusion.

Councillor Sarah Chambers, the city council’s cabinet member for cost of living, equalities and communities, said: “We know that libraries still play a crucial role in our communities and are vital spaces for learning, creativity, and social connection.

“Libraries really are more than just libraries and on our tour of the libraries that message was loud and clear, from all the wonderful users we met.

“Closing the libraries would’ve been detrimental to so many people in our communities.

“Sporting Communities has a record of success in delivering projects and I’m excited that we have identified a partner with strong credentials in community development to help us ensure a sustainable future for these invaluable services.”

The council’s cabinet approved plans for the city’s 10 non-statutory libraries to be run by a trust at the start of the year and a formal process to identify viable proposals was launched in March.

Alongside providing traditional library services, Sporting Communities has ambitions for the library buildings to serve as hubs for community activities, workshops and events.

Ben Rigby, managing director of Sporting Communities, said: “We’re delighted to have this opportunity to manage Derby’s community libraries.

“Our vision is to make them amazing places where everyone feels welcome and safe and where people can learn and connect with their community.

“We’ve got some exciting plans to offer a range of programmes and services.”

The ten community libraries Sporting Communities will run are Allestree, Allenton, Blagreaves, Chaddesden Park, Chellaston, Derwent Community Library, Mackworth, Sinfin, Spondon and Springwood (Oakwood).

Derby’s five statutory libraries (Alvaston, Normanton, Mickleover, Riverside and Local Studies) will continue to be operated by Derby City Council.