Somerset Council is pleased to expand its coat exchange to 12 of Somerset’s libraries.

Now in its second year, the scheme is open to everyone and designed to support the community by providing access to warm coats to everyone, and especially those in need.

The libraries service is pleased to support this initiative in the following libraries: Taunton, Priorswood (Taunton), Wellington, Dulverton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Minehead, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury, Street, Langport, Chard.

Last year the scheme ran in eight libraries, with Minehead, Shepton Mallet, Street and Langport the new additions for 2024.

The Winter Coat Exchange also helps to support a green and sustainable Somerset. November marks ‘Buy Nothing New’ month, a campaign led by Keep Britian Tidy.

From the water and energy used in production, to the fuel used in delivery, every new item we buy comes with an environmental price tag. The campaign highlights that ‘Recycling is good, but we can do better’. Reusing, swapping, renting and buying second hand are all great ways to waste less.

With more libraries on board than ever before, the expansion makes it even easier to avoid buying new. Across the 12 libraries 546 coats have already been donated – with more than 200 already finding new homes.

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

The scheme wouldn’t work without the generous donations from the community. All participating libraries are open to donations, just drop your coat, or coats, off during opening hours.

The coat exchange really does help families, reduce waste, and save money.

There’s still time to donate pre-loved coats, each of the 12 libraries accept donations, however, Shepton Mallet, Wellington and Dulverton have received smaller number of coats.

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.

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