## **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