Members of Newark Library, Nottinghamshire, enjoy cultural exchange with Newark Public Library, New Jersey, US

More than 30 viewers enjoyed a cultural exchange when residents from Newark, Nottinghamshire, met online with friends from Newark, New Jersey, in the US.

The virtual chat, which was held over Zoom, was hosted by librarians from both Newark libraries.

Alice Flear, library manager at Newark Library, UK, said it started after a customer came forward with the idea.

“Beth Zak-Cohen — of Newark Public Library, NJ — received an email from one of our customers, which gave her the idea to get in touch,” said Alice.

“After some discussion we decided to do an introductory cultural exchange called morning coffee and afternoon tea.

“As Newark, New Jersey, is a large city, we decided to promote it countywide to maximise interest, as those living in other areas of Nottinghamshire may have an interest or a connections to Newark.

“We had 30 people on the call, which was a great response.

“After initial introductions, we talked about what Inspire is and a little about the areas, and the historical connection.

“Weare hoping to develop the links perhaps with smaller, more specialist interest groups, for example, local history, cultural exchange, education and learning.”

Alice said because of the interest, a survey will be sent out to members, who can suggest what they would like to discuss in future meetings.

Anyone interested in future link ups, go to Inspire Newark and Southwell Libraries on Facebook for more information.