Published 08 August 2024

West Dunbartonshire’s Libraries are set to introduce sewing classes for young people after being awarded national funding.

The Threads of Change project, developed by libraries staff, are one of five council projects in Scotland to have successfully secured £1500 funding from the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIPS) Green Libraries Scotland Grant Fund.

The Fund offers small-scale grants to support libraries in Scotland with innovative projects designed to grow environmental understanding and action and will support the implementation of eco-friendly workshops in the area’s libraries.

Threads of Change will teach children and young people basic sewing, repairing, embroidery and customisation through a series of workshops, developing new skills that will enable them to adopt lifelong sustainable practices.

Councillor Daniel Lennie, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “This is an opportunity for young people in West Dunbartonshire to learn new skills that will allow them to adopt sustainable practices in a creative and practical way. The libraries team have worked hard to secure this funding which will help utilise libraries and continue on our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint.”

Vice Convener of Corporate Services, Councillor Michelle McGinty added: “The Threads of Change project offers young people an opportunity to gain a new skill which will help them throughout their lives. In times when the cost of living and clothing is rising, learning how to repair or alter what you already have is really valuable and I’m sure our young people will welcome this project.”