THE new volunteer-run library in Stokesley is going from strength-to-strength, local MP Rishi Sunak heard.
The Globe transferred from local authority to community ownership in April this year and the Richmond MP called in to hear about its progress.
In the five months it has been operating as a community-run facility, The Globe, in Town Close, Stokesley, has attracted more than 130 volunteers. This month it extended its opening hours.
It has also become a community hub with a number of local groups using the spacious premises. The most recent is a knitting club which meets on Tuesday afternoons.
During his visit Mr Sunak met volunteers, trustees of the charity which runs the library and North Yorkshire County library staff who provide assistance to the volunteers.
The Globe also employs a manager, Jane Hall, a qualified librarian whose salary is paid by Stokesley Town Council.
Mr Sunak said: "The Globe is a very impressive community facility, enthusiatically supported by the people of the town.
"The number of volunteers now involved is fantastic and thanks are due to them and the trustees who have guided the library so successfully through its early months."
The library is still seeking volunteers and has also launched two sponsorship schemes to help raise the money to cover running costs. An individual sponsorship to become a Friend of The Globe costs £20 a year. Friends are invited to all important library events.
Corporate sponsorship costs £300 a year and allows firms to advertise in the library and hold an event there once a year. Corporate sponsor include Tanton Industries and Redmayne Bentley stockbrokers.