Sandwell Libraries Federation Annual Report – 1 April 2024 31 March 2025
The need to raise funds in the last year for the Federation to use has not been necessary again as the Library has found other sources to fund children’s activities.
However the Federation has continued to meet 3 or 4 times a year to encourage the Friends’ Groups that exist for a number of Sandwell Libraries. These groups individually fund small, and sometimes larger sessions, in which a wide section of the local communities can partake. Funds for these activities are generally raised though small sales and donations at events or local funding bids.
The strength of the Federation lies in the exchange of ideas at meetings and a sense of togetherness when working to reinforce the benefits of public libraries.
To this end an annual workshop has become a useful feature where discussion allows successful ideas to circulate and affirms the work Friends’ Groups undertake. (This group also provides a valuable service in community cohesion).
Expenditure is very low and taken from existing funds until such time as these run out.
Again a decision by Trustees and the wider group felt that the Charitable Registration should be maintained in case circumstances change and the requirement for a more active participation with the Charity Commissioners became necessary.
After two years of struggling to find a treasurer it is hoped that one has possibly been found. This is also the case with a new secretary. It has been the custom that the post serve both the Federation and the Trustees.
Sandwell Libraries Federation Financial Statement – 1 April 2024 31 March 2025
Income Expenditure c/f £357.52 £84.45
Balance £273.07