Who We Are

Our Beginning

We started life as the Ratby Library Group, formed in September 2014 when it became apparent that cuts in expenditure, forced upon Leicestershire County Council by the Government through swingeing cuts to its local government grant, meant some uncomfortable choices were having to be considered. With libraries being considered a ‘soft’ target compared to more critical front-line services, a group was formed to examine options that would keep our library ‘alive’. A 10-year lease on the property is owned by the Ratby Library & Community Group, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registered with the Charity Commission (Reg. No. 1164252) and we aim to ensure it remains community managed and operated.

We do hope the residents of Ratby and surrounding areas come and visit the cafe and library as doing so supports us. Over 70% of those who responded to our questionnaire felt that the community library project was worthy of support so that we can have, and develop further into the future, this important village amenity. We look forward to seeing you all soon!