Explore York Libraries and Archives Annual Review 2024-25 - Report - Page 3
Welcome from the Chair
As I complete my sixth and final
year as Chair of Explore, I do so
with a deep sense of pride - and
no small measure of sadness. It
has been a privilege to serve this
remarkable organisation, and
to be part of something so alive
with purpose, community, and
creativity.
Explore is an extraordinary mutual. It is
powered by people, inspired by place, and
enriched by a sense of shared magic. Over the
past year we have delivered on our strategic
plan, providing what staff, volunteers, friends,
and partners told us mattered most.
Through countless visits to our libraries, cafés,
and the city archive, I’ve seen at first-hand how
Explore’s unwavering commitment to literacy
and learning touches lives. From storytimes
and our ‘Summer Reading Challenge’ with our
youngest readers to reading groups and ‘Big
City Reads’ for lifelong learners. I’ve witnessed
how our cultural and creative work has sparked
imagination, and how our library spaces
provide warmth, safety, and welcome for those
who need us most.
I’ve repeatedly asked myself: What kind of
organisation is Explore? It’s a people-first
organisation. It creates spaces – social,
communal, cultural, familial, educational – that
support well-being and connection. It listens,
learns, and adapts, always striving to better
serve the people of York.
Explore is a community anchor. In close
partnership with the City of York Council, we
have expanded our services, launched new
libraries, and developed existing ones into
vibrant community hubs.
Explore is a cultural force. Working alongside
Arts Council England, we have reinvigorated
our libraries and archive as places of ambition,
creativity and excellence. This partnership
has helped us pursue a mission rooted
in dynamism, inclusivity, environmental
responsibility, and relevance.
In a year shaped by continuing challenges, this
review illustrates just how much dedication
and resolve it takes to sustain our mission
and affirms our commitment to providing lifeenhancing services and experiences for the
people of York.
This year, more than ever, I’ve felt the spirit
that sets Explore apart: a spirit of care,
kindness, and trust, of passion, perseverance,
and the belief that we can build something
better – together. In these uncertain times, that
belief is more powerful than ever.
Chris Edwards
Chair of the Board of Director
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