Suffolk Libraries is looking for someone to represent the views and interests of young people in the future development of the organisation.
The new young trustee would join the Suffolk Libraries Board, which helps to oversee the running of the organisation and makes key decisions on the future strategy and shape of the county’s library service.
The opportunity is open to anyone aged 18-30 who is interested in getting involved and is prepared to commit a few hours to attending Board meetings, which take place roughly five times a year.
One of our first young trustees has since moved on to become a member of the Suffolk Libraries marketing team. Suffolk Libraries has also since made it possible for up to three young people to become trustees, underlining how important it sees young people in the development of the organisation.
Bruce Leeke, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said:
“We have trustees who are committed to shaping the direction of Suffolk Libraries but we’re always looking at how we can increase the diversity and representation from key customer groups amongst our Board. The young trustee who joined our Board last year has recently been appointed to an exciting role working within our Arts team. As an organisation that prides itself on providing opportunities for people to grow and develop, we’re delighted to have created two more Board roles for young people. We’ve got exciting plans for Suffolk Libraries and would love to hear from more young people keen to get involved in shaping our future.”
Bradley Allsopp is a young Suffolk Libraries trustee who is also a member of Ipswich Library Friends Group. He said:
"Serving on Suffolk Libraries' Board has been an absolute privilege. I get to be part of a fantastic charity helping so many people and really give back to my local community. I learn so much personally from being involved in strategic decision making for the organisation, it's really helped me develop professionally. Everyone has been so welcoming and helped me learn about the organisation and the role along the way, I feel like my voice and perspective is really valued, and there are loads of resources online from various sources to support new trustees too. It's been a fantastic experience that I really recommend getting experience of early in your career."
Many other charities in Suffolk have seen the benefits of recruiting a young shadow trustee and the role would help to develop leadership and communication skills and gain some great experience of the voluntary and public sector.
Anyone wishing to volunteer is invited to contact laura.a.richardson@suffolklibraries.co.uk by 12th August 2024.
