Happy Birthday Western Community Library!

10th November 2025
Happy Birthday Western Community Library!

20 Years of Western Community Library 

Join us to celebrate the 20th anniversary of a much-loved community institution.

Western Community Library turns 20 this month, proudly marking two decades of providing books, information, and a warm welcome to islanders in the western parishes.

It was set up in 2005 as part of our commitment to make services accessible to the whole community, including those who find it difficult to travel into Town. Originally based at Styx, it has since found a permanent home at St Saviour’s Community Centre, where it continues to thrive today.

Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the library offers a wide range of books and audiobooks for adults and children, as well as a weekly rhyme time session for families. It’s open every Tuesday afternoon, 14.00-16.00, and Wednesday morning, 10.00-12.00.

Jackie Burgess, the Library’s Community & Wellbeing Lead, said:

“Reaching 20 years is a remarkable milestone for Western Community Library. Like all community libraries, it’s so named because that’s exactly what it’s all about – community. It was set up to bring books and other library services closer to islanders who depend on them, and 20 years on it still excels in doing just that. It brings people together over a shared love of stories – plus lots of cups of tea, of course!

“We’re so grateful to our incredible team of volunteers, some of whom have been with us since the start. Their commitment and enthusiasm make the library what it is – a warm and welcoming place for everyone. We’d like to say a very big thank you to all those who have given their time to support the running of the library over the years.”

Nina Ogier has been volunteering at Western Community Library since 2012.

“I am so happy to be a part of the community library here at St Saviour’s. It really is a community, with readers and volunteers all happy to meet up once or twice a week for companionship as well as the delight of choosing another book to keep us company through the week ahead.”

Library staff and volunteers will mark the 20th anniversary with a special celebration on the afternoon of Monday 10 November 2025. Everyone who has volunteered at, supported, or enjoyed Western Community Library over the years is invited to come along.