Temperatures are set to rise again in the UK as August progresses, particularly in and around London and the South. A prolonged 'heatwave' - defined as three consecutive days or more in which 25°C is achieved or exceeded - appears likely. 

Public libraries are here to help those who would otherwise struggle to find shelter during the periods of very hot weather that we are now experiencing with increasing frequency in their role as 'cool spaces'. These are public facilities that offer respite from the sun, including shade and in many cases water if needed. Library services like Manchester now offer 'cool spaces' in almost all their libraries. In Greater London, you can use the Mayor's interactive map to find your nearest 'cool space' library. 

The growth in 'cool spaces' is inspired by the successful 'warm spaces' project coordinated by the Warm Welcome campaign that has taken place in public libraries every winter since 2022. The weather conditions may be different but the underlying principles remain the same: that public libraries are safe places to rest for the entire community. As the London Borough of Havering explains, quite simply 'Cool Spaces are safe and friendly places and are free to use for anyone struggling to keep their home cool.'