HAMPSHIRE libraries have been promoted as a sanctuary for people throughout the winter.

Hampshire County Council is reminding people to visit their local library for a warm, welcoming, and supportive space to spend time this winter. 

The county library service has registered all branches on the Warm Welcome website, which includes a national map of venues that are free, warm, welcoming, and safe.

Executive member for countryside, culture and communities, Cllr Russell Oppenheimer, said: “As temperatures fall this autumn we are reminding residents that there’s a warm space and an even warmer welcome at local public libraries.

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"Visiting a library is free. Our library teams can also provide lots of support and information on a wide range of topics and work closely with organisations like Citizens Advice.

“Whether you choose to pop in to enjoy some quiet time with a book, magazine, or newspaper, or to meet up with people who enjoy similar interests, there is something for everyone.

"In addition, libraries offer free Wi-Fi and provide access to public computers making it a good option for people to work or study. You are welcome to bring your own snacks, and drinks into the library, and several branches have low-cost hot drinks on offer or a café.” 

General manager at The Arc, Adam Gilbert-Anderson, said: "We are so pleased that we are able to provide both a warm welcome and support for those people in our community who are facing soaring energy bills this autumn.

"In addition to free wifi and the facilities that we have to offer, we also run a number of free events and activities for all ages that are open to everyone, including Rhyme Time and Story Time for families and knit and natter through to workshops for adults to brush up on their digital skills."

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From November, libraries will also be running Chat About events for people to come and socialise. The new mental health initiative was launched by the council to create a network of venues with trained staff who understand how to talk about mental wellbeing and can signpost people to resources and further help. 

For more go to hants.gov.uk/librariesandarchives/library.