Drew Hendry, MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, recently visited the Inverness Library to learn more about the wide array of community events being held by High Life Highland on a regular basis.
During this visit, Mr Hendry engaged with the attendees of High Life Highland’s weekly ‘Lego Club’ and praised the Library staff for their efforts in ensuring the space is as inclusive and accessible to members of the public as possible.
Drew Hendry shared: “Libraries are such an asset to our communities, one that goes far beyond books. Initiatives such as the Lego Club provide a space for both children and adults to socialise whilst doing something fun and engaging.
“Thanks to all the staff members who took the time to explain all they have on offer, and some of the challenges that come with the territory. I was particularly keen to hear more about High Life Highland’s Leadership Programme and what the volunteers get up to.
“It sounds like a fantastic opportunity for our young people to gain some experience ahead of applying for their first job, or simply a fulfilling way to spend some time each week.”
Julie Corcoran, High Life Highland’s Head of Libraries, added: “We were delighted to welcome Drew Hendry to the Lego Club at Inverness Library. The visit was a great opportunity to showcase the wide and varied services that libraries provide for communities.
“Libraries offer a range of activities and events for all ages at free or low cost to participants, so whether you are looking to learn a new skill, meet new people, or simply spend some relaxation time – why not drop into your local library to find out what’s on offer?
“Library staff go beyond their local facilities to engage with audiences across Scotland, this year attending the renowned Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival hosting a stall offering a range of activities aimed at children and families.
“Staff actively engaged with the festival-goers by providing a range of fun craft activities such as badge making, superhero mask making, comic strip drawing, and of course there was also Lego available for anyone wishing to build something amazing.
“Overall, the High Life Highland Libraries team engaged with nearly 3,500 attendees, garnering positive feedback from everyone looking for a quiet space amongst the hustle and bustle of the festival.”
Steve Walsh, High Life Highland’s Chief Executive, concluded: “High Life Highland is delighted to have welcomed Drew Hendry to the Inverness Library for the weekly Lego session and to learn more about what there is on offer at Inverness Library for the community.
“Library staff who attended on the day of the visit, and who went the extra mile to give their time at Belladrum, are a credit to the service and proactively engage with Scotland-wide communities to share what the Library services deliver across the Highlands.”
The ‘Lego Club’ has two weekly drop-in sessions, one for adults and one for children. The children’s session takes place every Wednesday from 3:30-4:30pm, and the adult’s session takes place every Tuesday from 12pm-2pm. Booking is not required to attend.
Libraries additionally offer a range of volunteering opportunities for young people aged between 12-25 years, through High Life Highland’s Leadership Programme. Learn more and get involved using the following weblink: https://www.highlifehighland.com/sport/leadership-programme/ or get in touch with Elizabeth McDonald, High Life Highland’s Leadership Programme Development Officer, by emailing: [email protected]
Inverness Library hosts a wide range of events and activities for all demographics in the community. More information can be found on High Life Highland’s dedicated Inverness Library page: https://www.highlifehighland.com/libraries/inverness-library/