The Europe Challenge

The Local Challenge

The challenge is tackling social isolation and improving well-being in a town where one in ten people identify as lonely. Loneliness and self-harming are both particularly rife among young people. Like many other library spaces, St Helens has seen declining numbers of library users, as well as imminent library closures. They are keen to work with the local community to refresh their offer with diverse arts and cultural programmes to attract a broader audience to remaining libraries – bringing in people who would not necessarily see the library as a space for them. 

 The Initiative  

This initiative helps to address the need to provide more welcoming opportunities and safe spaces where art can be enjoyed and created. Community cultural activators activate and advocate for library spaces through workshops, performances and programming that drive forward this vision. Beginning with facilitated workshops, discussions and learning exchanges, this initiative explores ways of reducing social isolation and increasing well-being through art. After this exploratory phase, the group then starts to curate exhibitions, performances and open-mic nights in one or two locations to help engage the community and develop interest. Successful models are then expanded to other libraries. 

What’s Next?

The future focus is on integrating local residents into library spaces through creativity and co-programming. By fostering community pride and ownership, the initiative aims to redefine libraries as vibrant hubs of creativity and knowledge, breaking away from traditional perceptions of silent spaces for reading. Strengthening community ties to libraries promotes social well-being and cohesion, giving a space for people to become active citizens in their own town and library. The goal is to co-create activities and events that enhance social participation and sustain a legacy of inspiring activities for years to come. 

Contact theeuropechallenge@culturalfoundation.eu if you have any questions or want to be connected with the team behind the project.