From early memories of escaping into stories, to building a routine that places the library at the heart of her day, for our latest Library Story, we caught up with Frances B Boyle at Eccles Library to find out how libraries have shaped her reading habits, supported her through life’s milestones, and become a place of comfort, community, and belonging.
Well, I grew in Blackburn, but I have lived in Salford for so long now that I feel like an adopted Salfordian. Books were always an important part of our lives as a family, so I was introduced to the library from a young age. I am from a big family, so reading and visiting the library was a good escape when you wanted some space. It also offered a free space to go to, which is a bonus.
The books. I have always used the library to get my books. Even when I was studying, I would use the library to do my research with reference books. I love the variety of books you have. You can get any author you are after. Even if there’s a particular book that’s not at your library, the staff can order it in for you. I have also taken to the cookbook selection. It is easier just to pop in and look for recipes that interest you, and because the books are in the library, you don’t have to keep the whole book. I make a note of the recipe I want and then return them to the library.
A change I have seen over the years is in the levels of additional activities taking place in the library. People have several reasons for using the library that goes beyond books.
A lot. It is part of my routine. I visit for different reasons too. I take part in the gym classes taking place in one of the library rooms with Donna. Even just if I’m passing, I will usually pop in. I use the gym at the leisure centre across the road, so if I am early I’ll pop by the library first. The library just feels like home. As a regular, you get to know the staff as well. So, I am always popping in, and it is a habit I have instilled in my daughter to use the library too, even in the age of technology. I am also trying to install that habit with my grand-daughter by bringing her to the library so she can start her journey with books.
As a young girl, I would read the Agatha Christie novels.
I tend to gravitate towards crime books, especially American crime. I enjoy problem solving and that feeds into the type of books I read. I have an interest in psychology and reading offers a way of looking at things from a different perspective. It makes you question how you would react in a situation, especially when it is set in a time before you.
I have read a lot of Angela Marson, Linwood Barclay, Karin Slaughter, and David Baldacci.
I would highly recommend Karin Slaughter’s novel ‘Cop Town.’ It is set in 1960/70’s America, a bit of a tough read but so worth it. I would recommend it to everyone.
Similarly, I would recommend David Baldacci’s ‘A Calamity of Souls’ novel. It is a shift from his usual writings and explores themes of racism and the civil rights movement from the perspective of a lawyer. It was a fascinating read.
On a side note, for children, my granddaughter is currently reading the Isadora Moon series by Harriet Muncaster and really enjoying them.
Massively. I will always support the libraries. They are community hubs and safe spaces that are warm, welcoming, and free.
There are moments in your life where you want comfort and to me that is the library.
It has been a cornerstone to milestone moments. I am a widower, and I gave up my work to care for my husband. So, there were days I would come to the library and that would be the highlight of my day.
I feel a sense of pride in Salford for valuing their libraries. Libraries are vital. Some people use the library because they need to. I don’t need it, but I choose to use the library because I enjoy it.
Whether discovering new authors, taking part in community activities, or introducing her daughter and granddaughter to the joy of reading, the library remains a constant presence in Frances’ life. Her Library Story is a powerful reminder of the enduring role libraries play as inclusive community spaces. Places people may rely on, but also choose, simply because they feel like home.
Find your closest Salford Library or Join Online and start writing your own Library Story today!
Sign up to the Salford Community Leisure mailing list and be the first to find out about our latest news, offers and forthcoming events across our services.
