When I was a child, going to the library was never a good experience for me.
I remember standing outside, just before the doors opened, being reminded to be quiet, pick a book and sit down. I completely understand why some children love that calm, quiet space — but it just wasn’t for me. For me, it felt similar to going into church or going out for a meal: be quiet, sit nicely and don’t fidget.
The problem was, I am a fidgeter. I never did well sitting still or staying quiet for long. I wanted to do something — make things, play with things, be hands-on.
As I got older, reading became something I did because I had to. It was about learning, revising and cramming information, often late at night with tired eyes, trying to digest everything before an upcoming exam. Because of that, I never really understood why people would look forward to a night in with a good book. I have never held a library card by choice, and I have to admit I have read very few books purely for entertainment.
That all started to change when I began working with Make It Market Drayton and became more aware of what was happening at Market Drayton Library.
I started following their posts on Facebook and was surprised to see just how many events and activities they were advertising. What struck me most was that not everything was for children. There were Scrabble sessions, LEGO activities, crafts and community events. In fact, they very rarely posted about books — something I found quite surprising.
Curious, I decided to go along and find out more, particularly about the evolving role libraries now play — not just as places to borrow books, but as community hubs that can help attract people into town.
While visiting, I spoke to a couple of regular users and discovered that people travel into town specifically to attend activities. Some walk, some catch the bus, and others drive in. From a tourism and visitor economy perspective, that is really important. When people come into town for an activity, they often stay longer — visiting cafés, browsing independent shops, or exploring what else the town has to offer.
The figures from Market Drayton Library really highlight this shift. In 2025 alone, the library welcomed 48,111 visits, with 7,006 adults and 6,128 children attending events. A total of 788 events were delivered, the vast majority of which — 687 — were free to attend, making them accessible to a wide range of people.
The library also supports a strong and growing community of users, with 2,490 active library card holders and 624 new borrowers joining in the same year. While traditional services remain important — with 37,069 books borrowed — it is clear that people are using the space for much more than just books.
Digital access is another key part of the offer, with 83,954 minutes of computer use recorded, alongside initiatives such as the Summer Reading Challenge, which saw 321 participants take part.
Behind the scenes, this is supported by a dedicated team of 12 staff members and 38 volunteers, helping to keep the library running as a welcoming and accessible space for all.
Libraries are also an important place to find out what’s happening locally. Many visitors use the community noticeboard to discover upcoming events, volunteering opportunities, activities and local groups. This makes the library not just a destination in itself, but a gateway to everything else taking place in the town.
Libraries are increasingly becoming part of the overall visitor experience. They are warm, welcoming spaces where people can spend time, discover local information, see artwork and connect with the community. For visitors who may be coming to Market Drayton for the first time, places like the library can become an unexpected but positive part of their visit.
I have to admit, I have now visited the library on a number of occasions. I have enjoyed viewing the artwork on display, which I absolutely love, and I have even made myself a free coffee — but we’ll keep that between us.
I am probably still more comfortable with a blank piece of paper, colouring pencils, a colouring book or a puzzle book. But I have definitely come to appreciate the evolving role libraries now play, especially in attracting visitors to towns like Market Drayton.
Libraries today are not just about books. They are about community, creativity, connection and experience. And in towns like Market Drayton, they are quietly playing an important role in encouraging people to visit, stay longer and discover everything our town has to offer.
So next time you visit Market Drayton, why not pop into the library? Join an activity, see what’s on, and maybe even pick up a book — if that’s your thing.
