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New community-led library opens thanks to funding from Barnsley Council’s Love Where You Live
A new community‑led library space opened in Darton today, offering local people a warm, welcoming place to read, relax and connect with others.
Darton Community Volunteer Library is based at the Darton Centre and was developed in consultation with Darton West councillors and the Darton West Ward Alliance.
It has been funded by Barnsley Council’s Love Where You Live programme, part of a wider £3.5 million investment in community‑driven improvements across the borough.
The new volunteer library was officially opened by the Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr David Leech.
The space is run entirely by volunteers and sits independently of the council’s statutory library service.
It offers a calm, friendly environment with a wide range of donated and pre‑loved books for all ages.
This project embodied the spirit of the Love Where You Live movement, which encourages local people to get involved in their communities, support grassroots initiatives and help create a vibrant, welcoming Barnsley for everyone.
Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said:
“It was fantastic to see the Darton community come together to celebrate the opening of this new volunteer‑led library.
“Spaces like this play a vital role in supporting wellbeing, learning and connection, and they show the real difference that local people can make when they work together.
“I want to thank every volunteer who helped bring the project to life – their dedication is what makes places like this flourish.
“I hope everyone in Darton will welcome and make use of this wonderful new facility at the heart of the community.”
Through the Love Where You Live initiative, Barnsley Council is bringing forward community enhancement projects in every ward.
A total of £3.5 million is being invested in local places, supporting everything from environmental improvements to grassroots ideas shaped by residents themselves.
Everyone is encouraged to get involved in Love Where You Live, whether by joining a local project, helping to look after shared spaces, or putting forward new ideas.
Find out more about Love Where You Live and how you can get involved at barnsley.gov.uk/LoveWhereYouLive.
