Hull Council - Learn-Ings Zone
Two members of staff at the Ings Library and Customer Service Centre, Alison Houldridge and Lorraine Dolman, have worked with young people in this area of Hull to plan and create a specific library space for young people aged 11-16 years.
Whilst this is not an unusual development project, what makes it unique is that Alison and Lorraine are not senior managers and their achievement is above and beyond their roles and job responsibilities.
Recognising that there were few facilities for young people in the Ings ward and that young people were not using the library for reading or learning, Alison and Lorraine worked with local young people to understand their needs. Through their determination and commitment they raised £25,000 through an Awards for All grant and from local businesses and organisations to create the space the young people envisaged. The young people have been involved at every stage, including choosing furniture, books, DVDs and developing rules for use of the space.
The Learn-Ings Zone opened on 3rd July and is already very popular.
Alison and Lorraine are continuing to work with the group to develop new activities and encourage more young people to use this wonderful facility.