Community Histories, Shared Stories

A year of creativity, connection and shared stories was celebrated at Paignton Library on Saturday 19 September, as the Community Histories, Shared Stories project came to a close.

Funded by the European Cultural Foundation as part of The Europe Challenge 2026, the project brought Paignton Library and community partner Ubuntu CIC together to tackle loneliness and isolation in Torbay. Over the past year, people of different ages and backgrounds have come together through zine-making, supported by zine artist Stuart Crewes. Together, they have created artwork sharing their experiences, backgrounds, hopes and ideas for the future.

The event was a chance to reflect on the project and the connections made along the way. Participants enjoyed a drumming workshop and a special performance from multi-award-winning kora player Suntou Susso, alongside food, cake, zine-making and an exhibition of work created throughout the project. For participants, the project has been an opportunity to build confidence, try something creative and develop new social connections.

The zines will be available to view in local libraries, and there are plans for the sessions to continue in some form, helping the friendships and connections created through the project to grow.

Community Histories, Shared Stories has shown how libraries can be welcoming spaces where people come together, share their stories and build stronger communities.