Community-Run Libraries Celebrate 10 Years of Success in Bexley

Two of Bexley's community-run libraries are celebrating a major milestone this year, marking ten years since they transitioned from council-operated services to community-led hubs.

Blackfen Library and Slade Green Library moved to a community-managed model in 2016, with local organisations working alongside Bexley Council to ensure library services continued to thrive at the heart of their communities.

Over the past decade, partners including the New Generation Community Trust at Blackfen Library, the Bostall Library Community Group and Eco Communities at Slade Green Library have helped transform the spaces into vibrant community hubs.

In addition to providing traditional library services, the organisations have supported a wide range of projects including literacy programmes, digital inclusion initiatives, community events, environmental activities, volunteering opportunities and skills development schemes.

Councillor Brian Bishop, Bexley's Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, praised the achievements of the organisations and volunteers involved.

He said: "This ten-year milestone is a testament to what can be achieved when councils and communities work hand in hand. Our library partners have shown extraordinary commitment, creativity and resilience in supporting these much-loved local spaces.

"Libraries are far more than buildings with books – they are lifelines for learning, wellbeing and connection."

Councillor Bishop also thanked the organisations that have helped make the community-led model a success over the last decade.

"I would like to extend my thanks to Bostall Library Community Group, Eco Communities and New Generation Community Trust for their dedication over the past decade," he added.

The council says it remains committed to working closely with its library partners and strengthening community-led services as it looks to the future.

The anniversary highlights the growing role local libraries continue to play across Bexley, not only as places to borrow books, but also as centres for learning, social connection, digital access and community support.