Three new pop-up libraries launching across West Berkshire

West Berkshire Council is launching three new pop-up libraries this April to bring books and library services closer to rural communities.

The new pop-up libraries in Aldworth, Shaw-cum-Donnington and Speen will join the existing services already running in Basildon, Compton and Leckhampstead. Together, they will give more residents easy access to books, reading support, information and friendly advice from trained library staff without having to travel to a permanent library.

Pop-up libraries are delivered in partnership with the local town or parish council or village hall committee, who fund the service so that their community can benefit from enhanced access to West Berkshire Libraries. They offer regular visits to villages that do not have a full-time library and provide a welcoming space for residents of all ages.

Feedback from residents using the current pop-up libraries has been consistently positive, with visitors praising the convenience, friendly staff and ability to reserve and collect books locally. Between April 2025 and February 2026, the pop-up libraries in Basildon, Compton and Leckhampstead welcomed 476 visitors and loaned almost 1,500 books. There were also 72 residents who became registered borrowers thanks to the easier access the pop-up libraries provide.

Councillor Nigel Foot, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure, Sport and Countryside said:

"We are delighted to be expanding our successful pop-up library service into more communities. These new locations will make it even easier for residents to enjoy the benefits of their local library without needing to travel. The feedback from villages already using pop-up libraries has been fantastic and shows how valued they are in rural areas.

"We are improving your libraries by bringing services directly to you, which supports our ambition to deliver services we are proud of. I want to thank the councils and committees who have chosen to invest in this service and help us bring an enhanced library offer to their communities."

Residents can drop in during the scheduled sessions to borrow books, get reading recommendations or simply stop for a chat with library staff.

The dates and times of each pop-up library are below but may vary occasionally due to bank holidays or other reasons so residents are advised to check the website before visiting. More information and any changes to dates or times can be found at westberks.gov.uk/outreach

Pop-up library locations and opening times

Aldworth
Monthly - 1st Saturday, 10.30am to 12pm

Basildon
Monthly - 2nd Monday, 10am to 12 noon

Compton
Monthly - 2nd Thursday, 10.15am to 11.45am

Leckhampstead
Monthly - 1st Wednesday, 10am to 11.30am

Shaw-cum-Donnington
Monthly - 1st Monday, 10.15am to 12.15pm

Speen
Monthly - 1st Wednesday, 2pm to 4pm

Don't just take our word for it...

Here's what some our pop-up library users have said about the service:

"I value that the library comes out to Leckhampstead, you can reserve books you like and they come to the Pop-up - the libraries is very helpful."

"Excellent service, I like being able to access books in a rural area."

"Very useful and needed service where we live and it would be wonderful if it was provided in other areas too."

"Excellent service and more than just books, there is a wide choice of subjects and suggestions that the librarian can order for you!"

"Enjoy visiting the pop-up library, the librarian is helpful and friendly, with a good selection of books in a small space."

Find out more here