When was the last time you visited your local library?
If it has been a while, then you will be pleasantly surprised to find that libraries are no longer places where anyone daring to speak in more than a whisper will be tutted at by other users.
Oban Library is a good example of how libraries have changed.
It offers visitors an irresistible mix of information, learning, activities, events and exhibitions – and, of course, books.
Argyll and Bute Council’s policy lead for community and culture, Councillor Robin Currie, said: “The days when libraries exclusively supplied books are long gone; now they are centres for community events of all kinds.
“Readers can encounter many other opportunities simply by walking through their library door.
“This may be their chance to start a new year with some new activities.”
The year has certainly got off to a flying start at the library on Oban’s Albany Street, with two contrasting art exhibitions on display and a full events diary focusing on languages and reading for all ages.
Between now and the end of the summer, visitors can swing by and see some items from the famous Argyll Art Collection.
These were purchased as a learning resource for the young people of Argyll by former Argyll County Council art adviser Jim Tyre and author Naomi Mitchison.
The collection, established in the 1960s and built upon for the following 20 years, was the first of its type to be set up by a local authority in Scotland.
The collection covers a range of media, including acrylic, charcoal, embroidery, engraving, etching, gouache, lithography, oil, pastel, pencil, procion dye, screenprint, monoprint, watercolour, woodcut, ceramic, bronze and woodcarving.
Also on display are three chalk-on-black-paper items by Taynuilt artist Anna Twigg, who works in all media and is available for commissions.
One organisation that’s very active in the library is The University of the Third Age (U3A), which leads retired and semi-retired people in a monthly Spanish language class, a reading and writing group and a Scrabble class.
At the other end of the scale, there are Bookbug sessions held twice weekly.
These free sessions aim to introduce story, song and rhyme to babies, toddlers, pre-school children and their families in a relaxed environment.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (E.S.O.L.) classes are held weekly, as well as a reading group for budding readers with support.
Joining a library in Argyll and Bute is simple and there is no charge to join.
Full membership of the library service is available to any person who lives, works or studies in Argyll, and members can visit any library in the area.
For visitors, temporary membership may be granted at the discretion of the librarian.
All you have to do is provide proof of your name and current address. There is no minimum age for joining, but those under the age of 16 years require a signature from their parent or guardian.
Once you are a member of the library, you can register for a host of online services, which allow you to reserve or renew a book, search the library’s catalogue of audio, large-print and children’s books, ask the librarian a question or order and download eBooks.
The service also provides a wide range of online reference sources.
For full details of all activities at Oban Library visit www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/oban-lorn-and-isles/oban-library
The library is open on Mondays and from Wednesday to Saturday (closed Tuesday and Sunday).
To join, either pop into the library or log on to the web address above.
Contact: 01631 571444 or e-mail: Obanlibrary@ argyll-bute.gov.uk