Sunshine Library is a leading light in encouraging parents to share books with their young children. The purpose-built early years library was the first of its kind when it opened in Lupset, Wakefield, in July 2001.
The library's success lies largely in the energy and flexibility of its team. Staff work hard to ensure that parents and children feel welcome and comfortable and they offer a wide range of activities.
Wakefield Libraries first considered setting up an early years library after a local librarian raised concerns about a lack of provision for young children in the area. The council service saw an opportunity to link up Sure Start to fund the idea with the St George's Partnership. Sunshine librarian Chris Barber describes it as 'a wonderful example of people being in the right place at the right time'. A joint bid to Sure Start led to the Sunshine Library being built on to the St George's Community Centre, which already housed an under-twos nursery and adult training centre.
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