50 years of Favell: Library team member shares evolution of shopping centre over 30 years he’s been there
A team member at Weston Favell Library, who has been located at the shopping centre for an impressive 32 years, believes there has been a great deal of evolution during that time.
Customer advisor Michael Cleghorn has worked at Weston Favell Shopping Centre since 1992, and joined the library service half-a-decade earlier in 1987.
The library has been located in the shopping centre since 1975 and continues to play an important role among the community.
When asked if and how the library has evolved over the three decades he has been there, Michael said: “Extremely. We’re more into computers and provide a service that supports customers face-to-face.”
The team works with visitors to help them resolve any issues they may be facing, whether that be mental health and welfare, council tax, and securing and renewing disabled blue badges, just to name a few.
West Northamptonshire Council hosts a monthly meeting in Weston Favell Library where people can address any issues they are directly involved in – which Michael sees as a valuable addition.
“It’s a privilege to work with the team,” said Michael, when asked how it feels to be part of the shopping centre as it celebrates its historic 50th anniversary.
“We’re close to the medical centre and forum, and we’re in the right place for people to benefit from everything.”
The customer advisor would love to see visitors continue to appreciate the things the library does – namely bus pass and blue badge renewals, offering support with independent living, and signposting people to relevant services if they cannot assist.
Michael agreed that it is a case of ‘use it or lose it’ when it comes to libraries, and he explained that each service has to submit a visitor count and meet targets.
Not only is Weston Favell Library the first port of call for those with blue badges, but it is well-used by families both on weekdays and weekends.
Activities for under fives are offered throughout the week, as well as craft activities at the weekends and the annual summer reading challenge – which Michael says is a highlight on a yearly basis.
Continuing to provide this vital service to the community would not be possible without the team of volunteers. Some support the summer reading challenge, whereas others keep the books in order and stock the shelves on a daily basis.
Michael believes the library makes a “vast difference” among the community, particularly as a place that people can meet and socialise, read books for leisure and education, and make use of the computers and free internet access.
The customer advisor looks forward to supporting and cheering on the 50th anniversary celebrations this week, and hopes the community will join in with what is planned.
“The centre being here is a good thing,” he said. “It’s evolved in so many different ways with so many shops and provision of services. The celebration will hopefully increase footfall and people might see something different and new that enthuses them to return.”
The Chronicle & Echo is working with Weston Favell Shopping Centre until the end of October to mark the celebration. If you would like to share your memories and pictures, email [email protected].