Suffolk Libraries is reflecting on how our library service has engaged with people and supported communities across Suffolk during the pandemic.
This ‘Libraries in Lockdown’ graphic captures some of the key statistics which summarise the past year.
When libraries closed their doors at the beginning of the first lockdown in March 2020, we ensured our customers were still engaged, entertained and informed.
Our eLibrary services saw an impressive increase in use, including 11,068 films streamed on Kanopy, 75,324 music downloads on Freegal, and over 300,000 eBooks read on Libby.
Many libraries hosted regular events such as Wordplay and crafts on Facebook. Live online author talk events had an audience of thousands, featuring talks with Neil Gaiman, Anthony Horowitz, and Elly Griffiths, with more planned for the near future including our Children’s Book Festival.
Our perinatal support service Me, Myself and Baby helped new and expecting parents over lockdown with weekly online coffee mornings where parents can meet up and find support.
We also launched a lifeline service which has now evolved into Phone a Friend, providing regular calls to customers who may be feeling isolated. Nearly 11,000 of these calls have now been made.
You can find out more about our work over the past year in this video feature kindly sponsored by the East of England co-op.
