LIBRARIES across North Yorkshire are holding a week of wellbeing events to celebrate National Libraries Week.

Last year community groups took over the running of 22 libraries, joining nine already under volunteer management.

Eleven libraries remain under County Council management supported by volunteers working alongside paid staff.

North Yorkshire’s community libraries model has been highlighted by the Arts Council and the Local Government Association as an example of best practice.

Almost 2,500 volunteers help to ensure that residents can access books, information and computers, receive books in their home if needed and have a safe place to take part in a wide range of activities. Visits to North Yorkshire’s libraries have been maintained and the number of active users has increased.

This year’s National Libraries Week will focus on wellbeing, with libraries showcasing how they bring communities together.

County Councillor Greg White, executive member for libraries, said: “People are passionate about libraries and understood the valuable role they play in our communities.

“We have a brilliant programme of activities during National Libraries Week to show off the wide range of ways that libraries help with wellbeing.”

Events taking place include Thrifty Thursday at Colburn Library on October 11 with crafts, knitting, card making and ‘Bricks and a Brew’ at Ripon library on October 12 where adults enjoy a cuppa and build Lego models with new friends.