Between April 2025 and March 2026, Sherburn and Villages Community Trust, including Sherburn & Villages Community Library and The Old Girls’ School Community Centre, continued to grow as a hub of connection, creativity and support for people across Sherburn in Elmet and the surrounding villages. Thanks to the energy of our volunteers, staff, partners and local residents, our community spaces have never been busier or more vibrant.
Below is a snapshot of what we achieved together.
Café 1876 Opens at The Old Girls’ School
Our brand‑new community café opened its doors, creating a welcoming space for people to meet, relax and enjoy good food in the heart of Sherburn.
Free Blood Pressure Checks Launched
Six trained volunteers offered free checks at the library and The Old Girls’ School, supporting 30 people since January 2026 and helping make health support more accessible.
A Buzzing Community Centre
Over 45,000 people took part in 1,665 classes, groups and parties at The Old Girls’ School.
Digital Inclusion Support
Ten brilliant volunteers helped 380 people with everyday tech challenges between September and March, ensuring no one is left behind in a digital world.
NowThen! Festival Success
More than 1,000 people enjoyed our community festival, decorated with 1,300 handmade pom‑poms crafted by local residents.
New Library Activities
We expanded our library offer with new evening sessions, including a creative writing group and “bump to baby” activities during times the library is usually closed.
New Digital Gadgets for Learning & Creativity
Thanks to grant funding, we added digital microscopes, an interactive globe, a 3D printer and a Cricut machine, opening up new opportunities for hands‑on learning.
Wellbeing Walks Flourish
Our walk leaders delivered 56 walks, welcoming 514 participants and volunteering 334 hours to support physical and social wellbeing.
Cuppa Connect Warm Spaces
Across the winter, 680 people joined 27 café sessions, supported by 11 volunteers offering warmth, conversation and community.
A Thriving Library
With 30,284 visitors, 29,961 books issued, and 364 Summer Reading Challenge participants, the library continues to be a cornerstone of local life.
Powered by Volunteers
Everything we do is made possible thanks to:
- 70+ volunteers
- 9 unpaid Trustees
- 8 staff members (3.2 FTE)
Their dedication keeps our community spaces open, welcoming and full of life.
See the Full Infographic
You can view or download the full infographic below.
If you need the graphic in a different or more accessible version, please email info@siect.uk
