Burngreave Library may close due to lack of funding, leaving community members without crucial IT resources.
The library in Burngreave, which has been running for just over a year, is currently funded by the council - but may not survive for much longer on current funds.
The council supports the facility by funding rent and new books. The library is currently looking for new volunteers to help run the facility so that it can continue to provide essential IT resources and support groups.
Sam Humphreys, a volunteer at the library said that as a result of the demographic of Burngreave many people need computers for immigration applications, job searches and other official online registrations.
The library also runs a number of groups and classes such as Wednesday night games nights for young people and morning groups for babies. There are also homework clubs and conversation classes to help with English speaking. However, the funding for these sessions has to be separately applied for.
Mr Humphreys said: “We are aware that changes will have to be made. We hope that there will be money within the community to help support the activities that we put on.”
There are around 40 volunteers currently working in and around the library on set shifts. Annie Brindell, who is a volunteer herself, also deals with financial aspects of the library.
Miss Brindell said: “Around two thirds of the people keeping this place going are over 60. As it looks now, these people will have to keep working until their late 60s, otherwise we will have to close down.”
Visit the Sheffield City Council website to find out more about volunteering.
