ONFIFE are offering up their libraries as warm spaces for West Fifers this winter.

A total of nine libraries have been designated to provide a warm place to study, work, play and socialise this month as the cost of living continues to rise.

The spaces, which open today (Thursday) will stay open to March next year.

Michelle Sweeney, director of creative development at OnFife, said: "Across the country, libraries and museums are preparing to act as warm havens for people struggling to heat their homes in the winter months and we will be playing a key role at a local level across Fife.

“We’re working with the council and others offering space, resources and activities to provide a joined-up approach to support services."

As well as offering a little respite from the cold, there will also be free hot drinks and additional free resources, such as jigsaws, games and craft materials on offer.

In the new year, free art activities will also be available, delivered in partnership with Fife Contemporary while free creative activities will be led by artist Katie Fowlie as part of Fife's Remembering Together COVID memorial project.

She continued: "And at branches not designated as Warm Spaces, our teams will still provide a warm welcome, offer warm space to sit and relax and use the normal library facilities and services. They will also be able to direct people to the council’s new dedicated Get Help website and community helpline if needed."

The designated Warm Spaces were secured after £34,000 was allocated from Fife Council and will be located in Cowdenbeath, Duloch, Rosyth and Dalgety Bay.

Councillor Linda Erskine, Fife Council spokesperson for communities and leisure services, said: "Our libraries have always been known as welcoming places at the heart of our communities. This additional funding means they can provide not just a warm space for people to read, study or work but also a warm drink and some free activities to pass the time.

"It is heart-warming to see the general response from our communities in the face of the cost-of-living crisis. So many organisations and community groups are pulling together in a range of ways to try to help everyone through. We have also had an overwhelming response from community groups applying for part of the £150,000 Warm Space funding, provided by Fife Council.

"It's going to be a difficult winter for many, but it is reassuring to see that our community spirit is still very strong."

Further details on the branches and their opening times can be found by visiting www.onfife.com/warmspaces.