Posted on Wednesday 27th March 2024
Users and local groups will be kept up-to-date with how refurbishment plans are progressing at Wombourne library.
Better IT access, new children’s library and improved public space are planned for a Staffordshire library.
Staffordshire County Council successfully bid for £199,000 from the Arts Council England to revamp Wombourne library.
They money will be spent to encourage more activities and help the community use digital services.
Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Communities and Culture, said:
Libraries are an important part of our communities, so much more nowadays than a place for books, and provide a focal point for the communities they serve.
This successful bid means we can update and develop Wombourne library to make it more welcoming, flexible and able to support different generations of users in different ways.”
Plans include removing a partition wall and fixed shelving and using moveable book cases to create a more flexible, open space, where people can relax, meet or attend workshops.
The IT suite will move into what is currently the children’s area, with more seating and work spaces. More charging points will be available so people can connect their own devices to the free WiFi, while there will also be tablets available for those without access.
The third strand of the refurbishment will be the creation of a new children’s section.
Family groups and nearby schools will be involved in designing a bright space with new furniture and shelves.
At the same time general users and local groups based there will be kept up-to-date on plans and timings to minimise disruption.
Additional space will allow for a greater range of books, as well as group activities to encourage reading and there will be an enclosed sensory space for calm and quiet.
Victoria Wilson added:
Once complete these changes will make such a difference to the facilities at Wombourne and I hope residents will be delighted by what they find.”