Our libraries are not just for books, they are community hubs which bring our local communities together.

As part of Bexley’s new library strategy, the Borough wants to highlight the activities and groups available at our libraries which can help positively affect the health and wellbeing of our residents.

Cllr Brian Bishop, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing and Cllr Melvin Seymour, Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services and Health visited The Nest in Thamesmead this week to see how residents are making the most out of the local resources on offer.

Attending a Healthy Walks group, which take place at The Nest at 9.45am every Tuesday, they spoke with residents actively engaging in their community, helping to keep their mind and body healthy.

The group is an important resource for those taking part and our libraries actively encourage activities such as this to benefit our community.

Our Councillors also met with volunteers who run a Coffee and Conversation group that meets on Tuesday mornings in the libraries and heard about how the group brings local people together to form friendships, only possible due to the opportunity to meet in the library.

Cllr Seymour said:

Health and wellbeing is an important part of our daily lives and we all must ensure we are taking care of ourselves.

Our libraries offer activities and groups to support residents with their physical and mental wellbeing and I am proud to see them used to help people realise their full potential."

Cllr Bishop said:

Our libraries are essential community resources which can have a profound impact on our residents. They offer a wide variety of groups and activities which enrich the lives of all who use them.

I would encourage those living in our Borough to sign up for membership at their local Bexley library if they have not already and make use of the services it can provide."