Somerset Council’s Libraries service is relaunching its Winter Coat Exchange scheme, designed to support the community by providing access to warm coats for everyone in need.

As children settle in to the new school year, a ‘Back to School’ appeal has been launched for children’s/teen coats that may have been outgrown, but the scheme welcomes donations of coats for all ages.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Culture, said:

“Following last year’s successful launch of this initiative, I am pleased that we are able to run this again as the colder  and wet weather is starting to make itself felt and this can be challenging for many, especially those who can’t afford to stay warm.

“Libraries become so much more than places for reading and studying, they become warm, welcoming, social spaces – real community hubs. I hope that people can donate good quality clean items that others can benefit from.”

The initiative was launched to help people stretch tight budgets that little bit further. Last winter’s donations of 1,022 coats and the uptake of 904, were so successful that the exchange is being repeated.

The scheme is simple:

• You can take a coat without making a donation.
• You can donate a coat without taking one.
• All donations must be of good quality and in a clean condition.
• Coats of any shape or size, for adults or children are accepted.

Donors are asked to hand items  directly to a member of staff at one of the participating libraries: Taunton, Priorswood (Taunton), Bridgwater, Yeovil, Glastonbury, Chard, and Dulverton. Please stay tuned for announcements of additional participating locations.

For more information or to participate in the Coat Exchange scheme, please visit your nearest participating library, on Facebook @somersetlibrariesuk or contact librariesmail@somerset.gov.uk