Libraries Week: Changing Lives, One Visit at a Time

It’s Libraries Week - and we’re celebrating the incredible ways libraries transform lives every day, starting with Charlie’s story. What began as regular visits to the library turned into a passion for helping others. Today, Charlie is a proud member of the library team - proof that libraries don’t just open books, they open doors.

Charlie in Ecclesall Library

"Libraries have always held a special place in my heart.

From a young age, they were more than just buildings full of books - they were peaceful, welcoming spaces that offered calm when I often felt overwhelmed. 

I cherish my position in libraries so dearly. Every day, I get to work in a place that once brought me comfort as a visitor and now gives me purpose as part of the team. For a long time, I didn't believe a future like this one was possible. I left school without any qualifications, struggling with my mental health and unsure of what I was capable of. I could barely leave the house alone. But everything changed when I was offered a place on an internship, and later an apprenticeship. Those opportunities led me into the world of libraries - a place I already loved, now becoming the foundation of my working life.

Working in libraries has completely transformed my confidence. What started as something I thought I couldn't manage has become something I now wake up excited to do every day. I now work full time, and through my apprenticeship I have achieved qualifications I never thought I'd be able to get, including my Maths and English - both of which I passed on my first try!

Charlie with colleagues at the
Apprentice Recruitment Fair 

I think the biggest reason I've come this far is because of the people around me. Library staff are some of the kindest, most encouraging people you could ever hope to work with. Every single person I've met has been supportive, understanding, and genuinely invested in helping me grow. I've gone from someone who couldn't answer a phone to someone who helps run events, supports customers every day, and plays an active role in shaping the library's services.

Libraries truly do change lives - not just for the people who visit them, but for the people who work in them too. I hope that by sharing my story, I can show just how powerful these spaces can be for someone who needs a place to grow, to feel safe, and to belong."

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From sparking a love of reading to supporting local entrepreneurs, libraries are more than just book-filled buildings. They’re welcoming spaces where people connect, learn, and grow.

📖 Reading for Wellbeing

Reading reduces stress, builds empathy, and boosts brainpower. Whether it’s fiction, fact, or fantasy, Sheffield libraries offer free access to physical, audio and digital books and magazines for everyone through our libraries, Libby App and the Home Library Service.

🤝 Tackling Isolation

Libraries are safe, inclusive spaces where everyone is welcome. Events, and community activities help people make connections and feel less alone.

💼 Boosting Business

Through the Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC), Sheffield helps small businesses and startups thrive with free access to expert advice, and the brilliant Cobra Database.

🎉 Get Involved

This Libraries Week:

• Visit your local library
• Join an event or workshop
• Share your story with #LibrariesWeek

Let’s celebrate the places that open doors, spark ideas, and bring people together.