Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge libraries have begun supporting mothers of young children by allowing breastfeeding in any public area.
Somerset’s 34 libraries are supporting breastfeeding by displaying ‘Positive about Breastfeeding’ window stickers.
The libraries are promoting the rights of mothers to choose how and where to feed their baby.
County Councillor Anna Groskop, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Health and Wellbeing at Somerset County Council, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “The scheme will offer a suitable welcome to all mums with young infants.”
“It is important that we do everything possible to assist women to breastfeed in public areas. I would encourage other organisations and public places to join up to the scheme and provide a warm welcome to mums.”
“There are so many health benefits associated with breastfeeding, research shows that it reduces hospital admissions, infections and reduces the risk of childhood obesity.”
Sue Crowley, Strategic Manager Library Services, added: “I am very pleased that we have signed up to the ‘Positive about Breastfeeding’ scheme.”
“There are a number of ‘Rhyme Times’ and ‘Baby Boogie’ sessions that are held regularly in many of Somerset’s 34 libraries. There is no cost or age limit to joining the library and we welcome children from the earliest months of life.”
“We aim to help parents and carers to support their children to grow and develop a lifelong library habit and are committed to promoting libraries as a safe public space for mothers to feed their babies.”
