A grant is up for grabs for community groups in Devon.

Aimed at improving access to books and funding reading spaces, The Community Support Library Fund is providing grants of up to £300.

The funding will go towards helping organisations and town and parish councils in rural areas.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities and Equality, said: “This fund aims to support the creation and enhancement of community libraries across the county and shows our commitment to rural areas following the decision to decommission the mobile library service.

“We want to provide more community spaces for local people to enjoy and expand their love of reading alongside existing activities.

“We are really keen to receive applications from communities that are not near to a main library or where access to such facilities is limited or challenging.

“So, if you already have a corner or room that is used as a book swap\library or are looking to create one we want to hear from you.”

Grants of between £100 and £300 can be used for a range of requirements including new shelving, more comfortable seating, books, lighting and more.

The fund encourages applications from town and parish councils, charities, voluntary community groups and church/faith groups with accessible spaces for reading.

Similarly, schools can apply if their reading facilities can be used by other groups such as parents or pre-schools.

To find out more visit Devon County Council’s website. The fund closes on March 31, 2024.