A pair of artists are doing their bit to tackle food insecurity, the climate crisis and the widespread closure of libraries all in one – by opening a library dedicated to food in their own home this weekend.
Michael Mayhew and Laura Elliott, from Northampton, say their collection of more than 400 books on growing, finding and preparing food will be available for anyone who wants to become a member.
They have also kitted out their kitchen, as well as building outdoor cooking facilities, so locals can try out some of the recipes they learn from the library’s books. It is hoped that this access will allow those with limited means and cooking craft the chance to boost their skills and their diet.
“The idea has been floating around our heads for a few years,” Mayhew told The Big Issue. “At one point we decided we would start growing food and that’s when the shelves started filling up with books.
“Restaurants are closing down because no one can afford rent on the high street. Then they started shutting libraries down. I think it’s sadly a real indication of what we value. We should really value those spaces – they’re little windows into our existence, sanctuaries full of ideas.”
The retired artist said that the closures pushed him to consider what he could do in response and he decided it could be beneficial to open up their large food book collection. He added: “Having books enables us to really learn about what to do with food and, importantly, to have the confidence to try these new ideas out.”
