National Volunteers Week: Jacqui gives something back to her community
Goring resident Jacqui Gray, right, has spent over ten years now volunteering with at her local library through various roles.
Now this National Volunteers week, she is sharing her story to inspire others to take up voluntary work.
Jacqui, 57, began her journey with a simple love for books. She initially started as a library volunteer, shelving books and assisting visitors. Over time, her passion and commitment led to her becoming more and more involved.
“I just love books – I absolutely adore reading, and I couldn’t think of anything better than to be in an environment where I was surrounded by them and talking to people about them!
“So, I became a volunteer, helping with shelving books and answering questions.
“After a while, I then got onto the committee of the Friends of Goring Library, and when our then chair became the library manager I stepped up to become the chair, which is also a voluntary role.”
Throughout the years Jacqui has discovered volunteering extends to organising community events and providing support to residents.
“Ten years ago, I would have thought volunteering in a library is all about books.. But, once I started to get involved, I realised it was so much more than that.
“We’ve always got events on, and people coming in for help and advice. Volunteering is also about engaging with people in the community who might not have realised what they can get from a library. It’s a community hub really.
“There’s always the next big thing to look towards too. We’ve recently had a library refurbishment, and now we’re planning a library garden.”
The social element of volunteering is also a great reward for Jacqui as much as helping her local community..
“I've got to meet many local people that I might not have otherwise come across.
“When I go into the village, there's a lot of people of all different age groups that I can talk to and that I know, and it really has helped me feel part of the community myself.”
Whatever the kind of voluntary work it is, Jacqui is now keen to encourage others to get involved too.
“You're helping the community, you're helping other people, and it gives you something as well. If you are just at a bit of a loose end or you're looking to broaden your horizons, then going to volunteer is a fantastic thing to do.
"When I started off with the library, I was only doing a couple of hours every other week, so you can commit as little or as much time as you can – most people are just really pleased you’re able to help.”
Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Jacqui’s story is a powerful example of how volunteering can enrich both the volunteer and the community. Her dedication and enthusiasm have made Goring Library a vibrant and welcoming place.
“If you're inspired by her story, do consider volunteering. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit more time, your contribution can make a difference. Join the community of volunteers and experience the rewards of giving back.”
Jacqui is Chair of the Friends of Goring Library, which is a registered charity and provides outreach in the community, raises funds to pay for staffing on alternate Saturdays and Thursdays, and also provides extra funds for books and events at the library.
The charity has also supported the library service during its refurbishment last year and is supporting the library garden development.
Find out more about Oxfordshire County Council’s library service by visiting oxfordshire.gov.uk/libraries
Volunteers’ Week is led by the UK Volunteering Forum, a partnership between Volunteer Scotland, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO), the Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) and Volunteer Now in Northern Ireland. Visit the Volunteers' Week website to find out more.
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