The current programme of monthly talks at the library has a very strong Ross theme.

In March Tony Dowding, and some of his colleagues, presented a great talk about the Ross-on-Wye Men’s Shed, as they celebrated its first anniversary. The Shed offers a chance for retired and semi-retired men to get together to do something interesting and find the friendships which are often lost when working life ends.

Tony talked about the practical tasks they carry out, from refurbished benches to bird boxes and brought along some fine examples, but the really powerful message was about the friendship and sense of purpose they had all found there. If you are interested you can contact Tony on [email protected]

At the next event, on Tuesday, April 16th, Jo Scrivin, the Ross Gazette’s editor, spoke about her job, explaining how the paper is put together and giving an update on the digitisation project which Ross Library and the Ross Library Development Group (RLDG) have supported.

Then on May 21st the speaker will be the town’s Tree Warden, Rob Taylor. The Ross Gazette recently published an article about Rob’s ambition for a town arboretum, and this will be an opportunity to hear more about the project from the man himself.

These are just the latest in a long series of varied monthly events organized by RLDG. These events are part of their fund-raising to supplement the resources of the library, alongside active campaigns when the library is under threat. Clare Llewellyn West, chair of RLDG, says; “As cuts go ever deeper it is all the more important to support our beautiful library which is so important to Rossians of all ages, from toddlers to pensioners.

“Over the years we have purchased a range of items from new seating for the Dennis Potter room to a projector for library events. This year we are concentrating on supporting extra activities in the library - including two music and storytelling workshops for children in the Easter holidays, and a star-studded treat in the summer.”

Details of RLDG events and campaigns can be found on their website http://www.rldg.org.uk or on the notice boards at the library.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.