This June, I am going to be walking 100 miles within a month, with my two golden retrievers (Dodger and Ruby!) across beautiful Devon and Torbay to raise money for our wonderful libraries. This is around 3.3 miles a day (just over 5k!)

I absolutely love walking with my dogs, enjoying the beautiful nature of where we live and seeing the joy on my dogs' faces, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to take on a personal challenge, to raise funds for Libraries Unlimited and to raise awareness of the important work our charity undertakes.

As Centre Manager, overseeing the libraries in Torbay, I am fortunate to see every day the impact that our libraries and library teams have on our communities. From newborn babies to the older generations, our library provides activities, socialisation, information and a welcoming space for all. We work to support our community's health and well being, whether that's through the pleasure of reading, or through working to eliminate loneliness and digital exclusion, particularly focusing on those who are most vulnerable within our local areas.

Libraries Unlimited offers a huge programme of activities that combat these challenges: support for new families, spaces for children, business support, access to arts and culture and so much more. Alongside our books and free welcoming spaces, we offer our unique reading challenges, story time sessions, sensory play, holiday activities and food for children on free school meals, access to free Wi-Fi, support in getting a job, and a raft of well being sessions.

The library is a space for everyone, which is free to use and a non-judgmental safe space, no matter your age, background, or personal situation!

Whilst our core services are funded by Devon County Council and Torbay Council, as an independent charity we are completely reliant on public support to continue our year-round provision.

With your support, we can continue to provide our life changing services and ensure our libraries remain welcoming and vibrant for future generations!