A Clothes Library has launched in Congleton.

Located at Congleton Library, the new initiative is being run by a local volunteer. It welcomes residents to donate coats so that those in need can borrow them - with no obligation to return the items if they are being given a good second life by the new owner.

At the heart of our community, the ambition of the new Clothes Library is to embody the spirit of generosity and compassion felt across the area.

There are currently two libraries running, one in Congleton and one in Holmes Chapel, run by two local volunteers who are the "driving force behind the idea".

The team hopes to to roll out the initiative across Congleton if it is successful, but for now they are trialing the coat library, with a plan to add more seasonal items to the library as the weather gets warmer.

A spokesperson for the group said that their "simple" mission is to "provide a warm coat to those in need, fostering a culture of giving and sharing whilst prolonging the life of fabrics and reducing textile waste."

The team added: "Founded on the belief that everyone deserves to stay warm during chilly days, regardless of their circumstances, along with a passion to reduce textile waste the Clothes Library relies on the generosity of individuals like you to donate gently used coats and jackets.

"These donations not only offer practical warmth, but also symbolise the care and support of our community members towards one another.

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"The Clothes Library is more than just a coat repository, it is a place where connections are forged and stories are shared whether you're dropping off a coat for someone in need or picking one up to stay cosy, every interaction contributes to the fabric of our tightly knit community while simultaneously contributing to prolonging the life of fabrics.

"Join us in our mission to spread warmth and kindness one coat at a time. Together, let's ensure that no one in our community goes cold and we move forward in a life with less textile waste."

Residents can follow the team on Facebook for updates on the Clothes Library Drop-in sessions, how to donate or receive a coat, volunteer opportunities and stories of how the local community comes together to make a difference.

The Congleton library is run by Rosie Mckinnon, and is open for donations on Mondays from 10:30am until 11:30am. Donations can ONLY be made to Rose during this time.

Coats can be collected during library opening times:

Monday: 10am - 7pm

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10am - 5pm

Friday: 10am - 1pm

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Saturday: 9am - 1pm

Follow the initiative on Facebook or get in touch with the team by emailing [email protected], where you can arrange a drop off to the library.