After a spending review in 2017 the then-North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) was unable to maintain the library service in its current form. Several smaller libraries were earmarked for closure but in many places local people have stepped in and created Community Libraries to maintain these vital services for their local areas.

Settle Community Library (SCL) started operating on 1st April 2017 and is run entirely by volunteers in partnership with North Yorkshire Council (NYC). The Council provides the books, furniture, equipment and some management support. SCL volunteers manage and staff the library and pay its running costs. All the money raised by our services, like computer usage and even fines, goes towards these running costs. We’re also a Registered Charity, no. 1170977.

Can you help?

There are three main ways you can help.

We also welcome new volunteers. If you’d like to know more, click this link.

Alternatively, you can provide financial support by becoming a Friend of the Library.

We also need more trustees to govern the Library. This is a responsible position, with some legal responsibilities. To find out more, read this document.