Despite being in existence for 25 years and having 10,000 books, volunteers at the English Library in Montaigu-de-Quercy, Tarn-et-Garonne, say it is still not well enough known and they want more members.

Treasurer Frances Rimmer said the library was self-funded with books from the British community and it has a range for all tastes: “There are the latest best sellers and a range of non-fiction including travel, life in France, history, biographies, gardening and sport, to name but a few. There are also CDs and talking books.”

Started in 1993 when a few English-speaking people got together on Saturday mornings for a coffee, this led to a book swap and eventually the group was offered space in the mairie and, as more books were donated, had to re-locate to larger and larger premises.

Now it has ground-floor offices which it shares with the International Club, which started with book-swap people in the early nineties who wanted to broaden their horizons and follow further interests.

Mrs Rimmer said running costs were minimal so lifetime membership is just €5, and the library’s honesty policy has worked for 25 years. Simple procedures allow people who have to travel a long way not to have to come too often.

“As well as the opportunity for a good read, there is also a selection of English greeting cards in aid of a dog rescue charity. There is a notice board for small ads and a box for used stamps which go to a charity for the blind. We would be delighted to welcome new members. It’s a great library.”

The library is open on Saturdays and Wed­nesdays at set times.

Find out more from Mrs Rimmer on rouzet82@gmail.com or Ann Goles­worthy on golesfr@gmail.com