Book lover scoops prize for library praise (From Western Telegraph)

Book lover scoops prize for library praise

11:30am Sunday 28th December 2008 in

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An avid reader from Tegryn has been given an early Christmas present courtesy of a national libraries’ Happy Days campaign.

Seventy-four-year-old Jean Franklin-Robinson, a keen user of the Pembrokeshire mobile library service, won £100 worth of high street vouchers after taking part in a survey demonstrating why libraries make people happy.

Launched in October by the Welsh Assembly, the Happy Days campaign encourages people across Wales to take a fresh look at their local library.

As part of the campaign, nearly 3,000 people took part in the survey and Jean supplied the winning reply for Pembrokeshire.

Book lover Jean said: “We’re a bit out in the sticks here so to go to a library would be quite a trek.

“When I found that the library could actually come to my door I was thrilled.

“The guy who runs the mobile library is very helpful and knows the type of books my husband and I like.

“He will order books for me as well as pick up return books when I’m away.”

She added: “It’s a great service and also saves me quite a bit of money – which given the current economic climate is very useful.”

Councillor Rob Lewis, cabinet member for cultural services, says the survey shows that libraries can make a real difference to people’s lives.

“The top ten results from the survey show that getting their favourite books and saving money are the top reasons for people feeling happy when using libraries both nationally and in Pembrokeshire, followed by the chance to chat to staff,” he said.

“Saving money is particularly relevant in today’s economic climate – libraries provide free internet access, free books and free learning opportunities, while many also provide cheap DVD rentals.”