New Library Books for Redcliffs readers to enjoy

Liz Huges and Dorothy Burrows of Heathcote Valley Library with the news books purchased with the grant from the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation.

Jaine Cunninghame and Nic Holdaway of Redcliffs Library with books by NZ authors

The Sumner Ferrymead Foundation’s focus is ‘locals helping locals,’ both individuals and community groups, through their grants programme and the scholarships & awards programme. The Redcliffs and Heathcote Valley libraries were recent recipients of the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation grants programme, with funds provided for the purchase of new books.

Both libraries operate independently of Christchurch City libraries, and to provide a service to their local communities they need volunteers to run the library, and funds to purchase new books. “We like to continually add new books to our collection so that our readers can access the latest books, but that means we need to continually raise funds” said Liz Hughes, secretary and treasurer of the Heathcote Valley Library. “We have purchased a range of new titles with the funds from Sumner Ferrymead Foundation that will appeal to a diverse range of readers. We’d really like the local community to come and have a look at what’s on offer, and if they are not a member they can sign up at no cost. They may want to join our monthly Thursday book club too.”

Redcliffs Library are using the funds to purchase books by New Zealand authors. “There is a growing interest in New Zealand writers, especially crime writers,” said Jaine Cunninghame, treasurer of the Redcliffs Library. “Each year we aim to purchase at least 300 new books, so the grant from the Foundation will help us to do this. This is not the first time they have helped us out so we are very appreciative of their support.” Redcliffs Library is also looking for volunteers. “It’s just three hours a fortnight so if you love books and have time to give back to your community, pop in and have a chat with us” said Jaine.

The Sumner Ferrymead Foundation likes to support a diverse range of community groups within its catchment area. “We have supported so many organisations over the 30 years we have been in existence; from our surf lifesaving clubs, the Sumner Lifeboat and the fire brigade through to the bridge club and libraries, and many sporting clubs and community pools, to name just a few,” said Treasurer Max Mathias. “The wide range of community groups we have makes the Sumner Ferrymead area such a great place to live. If you’d like to help us help others, you can make a donation via our website or you can contact one of the trustees directly.”