Westmorland and Furness Libraries are calling on Barrow Shipyard workers and local veterans to share their memories, stories, and items as part of their Memory Lane Project.
This initiative aims to capture and preserve the personal experiences of local residents which will be shared with the wider community through outreach visits to care homes and community groups. The project is designed to help people reminisce and learn about the past, fostering connections through shared memories.
Library Outreach Workers will use these stories to spark meaningful conversations, particularly benefiting those who may experience loneliness or isolation. The Library Service welcomes all kinds of stories, from funny and light-hearted memories to more serious reflections. Contributions can be made anonymously if preferred, and items of interest or memorabilia may also be gifted to the Library Service.
In addition to written and spoken memories, the library will create an audio file featuring the stories, ensuring that visually impaired people can also enjoy and benefit from the project. The service has been supported by BAE Systems, who have donated money to help produce large print booklets and purchase audio recording equipment.
Councillor Virginia Taylor, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Communities and Localities, said:
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and share their stories. The Memory Lane Project truly highlights the value of libraries and the role they can play in supporting older adults and our communities.
“It will not only help preserve our rich and important local history but also help bring people together, combatting loneliness and enriching the lives of residents in our care homes and community groups.
“We are grateful for the support from BAE Systems which will help us ensure everyone can participate in and benefit from this project.”
For those interested in contributing, memories can be shared by email, in person, or via letter. Please contact barrow.library@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk or call 01229 407370 and ask to speak to the Library Outreach Team.