Filey Library seeks volunteers to support new IT help service

The library was one of several East Coast locations to benefit from UK Shared Prosperity Funding, which enabled North Yorkshire Council’s library service to purchase new equipment and provided training for staff and volunteers to support people both in their homes and in care settings.

During the funded period, the team helped about 40 residents with a range of digital tasks.

Support has included everything from getting to grips with unused devices, adjusting accessibility settings such as font size, and offering essential guidance on staying safe online.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with one participant saying they “feel more confident now” and another sharing that the help “made my day — in fact, my week!”

As the project moves into its next phase, many residents are now keen to attend in-library sessions for ongoing support.

Filey Library is well placed to welcome individuals who may find other public spaces difficult to access.

Facilities for visitors include parking for disabled users, automatic doors, full wheelchair access, a hearing loop, and a disabled toilet accessible with a Radar key.

Equipment purchased through the project includes accessible digital tools designed to support comfort, mobility and visual needs.

There are LED desktop magnifying units for use with tablets, along with ergonomic keyboards and wireless pen‑mice that offer alternative ways of navigating and interacting with devices.

To meet growing demand, Filey Library is seeking new IT Buddy volunteers.

Volunteering is open to anyone with everyday digital skills and a friendly, patient approach—no expert knowledge is required.

Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

If you would like to learn more about volunteering, email [email protected]

If you would like to receive IT support, call Filey Library on 01609 536608, pop into the library or email [email protected].