Friendships made in the library

Dalgety Bay Library has been showing how a simple idea can make a real impact with a positive outcome.

Brenda Hoyle, Assistant Area Manager for the Dalgety Bay Cluster, explained: “Through talking to customers, Library Assistant Irene McKinnon picked up that many of them were lonely. Some were recently bereaved, others found themselves alone when their partners had moved into nursing homes and others had simply lost their confidence to socialise following the pandemic. She suggested hosting an activity to bring people together to encourage social connections.

“We advertised the group and Irene reached out to existing customers and other people suggested by friends. It has been a huge success – with 12 lovely people returning each month to have more fun! Over time. they’ve discussed a whole range of topics such as wedding ceremonies, books/reading preferences, topical affairs and past careers.”

The group can be loud and the conversation is often spirited but new friendships have grown and the team can see and hear the positive impact this has made on people’s lives – a few of the participants return to the library every Friday to play dominoes and have a cuppa and a chat.

Brenda added: “Not only has the group helped establish meaningful companionships, it has also given participants a sense of belonging and helped them feel valued and connected to the wider community.”