I myself had not, until I recently got the chance to sit down with volunteer and treasurer at Jesmond Library, Chis Clarke, who was more than happy to take time out of his day to fill me in on everything I, and seemingly so many students have been missing out on.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and smiling faces, defusing all my pre-interview nerves and found I was quickly identified by Chris himself whom I assume could pick me out like a sore thumb being the youngest in attendance at 10am that Tuesday morning. We took a seat and began our chat, to which I was soon to realise that this was and is so much more than just a library.
Jesmond Library first opened in 1963, originally ran by Newcastle City Council in a beautiful, listed building designed by Henry Falkner Brown, its large glass windows and circular design making it a light and engaging space. In 2013, Newcastle City council decided to close the doors of Jesmond library, much to the dismay of local residents who in turn took it upon themselves to set up a working group of volunteers to run and manage the library.
This collective community effort which now is a limited company and registered charity known as the ‘Friends of Jesmond Library’ meant the library only had to close for 3 months and means this incredible community space remains available for us today.
...I was amazed to discover was just how many events the library run for people of all ages and backgrounds.
One of the main aspects I was amazed to discover was just how many events the library run for people of all ages and backgrounds. From Italian language sessions, arts and crafts events to mindfulness and meditation, Jesmond Library provides low cost, easy access to learning and support.
This is all alongside their large availability of books which you can take out and borrow for free, access to computers, £1.50 coffee, tea or hot chocolate and most importantly, a safe space for anyone to simply come and sit and be comfortable.
In conversation with Chris, we both found it difficult to understand why students don’t utilise the space which stands just on their doorsteps. A place which is perfect as a quiet study space, for academic research or simply a quiet afternoon.
Whilst I would love to gatekeep this newfound spot all for myself, it is simply too convenient and calming not to share…I urge any student in any stage of study to pop into Jesmond Library and find out for yourself what lies inside. Additionally, pop over to their website to see what events they have coming up: https://jesmondlibrary.org/