Recently our Project Development Officer, Andrea Malcolm, revisit the Myrtle Café and witnessed the launch of their long-awaited pop-up library! This fantastic new initiative is a collaborative effort between West Berkshire Libraries and Shaw-cum-Donnington Parish Council, bringing the joy of reading directly to the heart of our rural community. In this article Andrea shares her experience.

A Community Hub with a Buzz
The atmosphere at the café is livelier than ever. Visitors are already enjoying the new addition, browsing the shelves with a coffee in hand. It’s wonderful to see how this partnership has added a fresh “buzz” to the local area, making library services more accessible for everyone in the village and beyond.
How it Works
Whether you are a lifelong bookworm or looking to pick up a new hobby, everyone is welcome to drop in and explore the curated selection of books available to borrow.
- Join for Free: If you aren’t a member of West Berkshire Libraries yet, don’t worry! You can sign up right there during your visit – it’s completely free.
- Personalised Picks: Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for? Simply chat with the librarian about your favourite genres or authors. They will hand-pick a selection tailored to your tastes for you to collect during their next visit.

Visit the Pop-up Library
We encourage everyone to stop by, grab a treat at the Myrtle Café, and dive into a great book.
Location: Myrtle Café, Shaw-cum-Donnington
Details: Check the parish noticeboard or the West Berkshire Libraries website for the latest opening times and scheduled visits.
