10,000 books wanting readers

Tarn et Garonne library looking for new members

Published Modified

Despite being in existence for 25 years and having 10,000 books, volunteers at the English Library in Montaigu-de-Quercy, Tarn-et-Garonne, say it is still not well enough known and they want more members.

Treasurer Frances Rimmer said the library was self-funded with books from the British community and it has a range for all tastes: “There are the latest best sellers and a range of non-fiction including travel, life in France, history, biographies, gardening and sport, to name but a few. There are also CDs and talking books.”

Started in 1993 when a few English-speaking people got together on Saturday mornings for a coffee, this led to a book swap and eventually the group was offered space in the mairie and, as more books were donated, had to re-locate to larger and larger premises.

Now it has ground-floor offices which it shares with the International Club, which started with book-swap people in the early nineties who wanted to broaden their horizons and follow further interests.

Mrs Rimmer said running costs were minimal so lifetime membership is just €5, and the library’s honesty policy has worked for 25 years. Simple procedures allow people who have to travel a long way not to have to come too often.

“As well as the opportunity for a good read, there is also a selection of English greeting cards in aid of a dog rescue charity. There is a notice board for small ads and a box for used stamps which go to a charity for the blind. We would be delighted to welcome new members. It’s a great library.”

The library is open on Saturdays and Wed­nesdays at set times.

Find out more from Mrs Rimmer on rouzet82@gmail.com or Ann Goles­worthy on golesfr@gmail.com