The Europe Challenge

The Local Challenge

In rural North Devon, barriers like transport issues and lack of disposable income hinder community participation. Braunton Library is stepping up to change this with accessible workshops in local hubs like playgroups, day centres and youth clubs. By offering refreshments and creating a welcoming environment, the friendly library staff – who often hear stories of loss and loneliness – are crucial in reconnecting the community. They provide not just advice and signposting but also much-needed companionship. 

 The Initiative  

The Gatherers is connecting people and place through plants and stories, tackling social isolation and loneliness in five rural North Devon libraries. A collaboration between Braunton Library and local creative charity Honeyscribe, the initiative is aimed at isolated locals, including those who are not digitally connected, people with long-term disabilities, new parents, new arrivals to the area, unemployed people and those who have been recently bereaved. Activities include making flower presses from old library books, creating bookmarks and cards, and planting seasonal flowers. Drop-in workshops inspire conversations and co-creation, while wildflower walks are helping local connections to flourish.  

What’s Next?

The Gatherers aims to boost self-esteem and lift people’s moods through creative activities. Long-term goals include sustaining weekly making sessions in libraries and expanding the project across Devon. The project partners also aim to connect with European communities to share practices and foster collaborations to make sure that libraries are seen as welcoming, safe spaces – helping to bridge the gap between people and places in rural communities and breaking down barriers to engagement.

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