Why are you carrying out the works now?
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We secured the funding from the Library Improvement Fund Round 2 which needs to be spent within a certain period. In addition, we always said we would invest in and improve the library if it remained in its current location, following the Towns Fund proposals a couple of years ago.
How did you decide on what to include in the improvements?
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We spoke to library users who told us how they would like to see the space transformed and how it should be inclusive and provide creative, learning and social space in years to come. The intention is to establish greater links with the wider community, such as schools, colleges, arts groups and care organisations.
What is happening to the vacant café space?
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It is planned that this will become part of the new children’s area.
How will the library be reconfigured/what will the plans look like?
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We are working with the library design companies to create a more modern and flexible space. Plans will be shared at coffee drop-in sessions.
Will the library offer change?
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We will continue to offer all aspects of our current library offer from the reconfigured space. There will be a maker space and we are consulting with groups to see what equipment they would like in the maker space.
What will happen to the groups that use the library?
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We’ll be speaking to them to explain how the works will progress and the alternative arrangements available to them. When works are finished they will have a much improved environment and facilities.
How long will the work take, and will the library be closed?
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It will take approximately 10 months to complete and while we will need to work out logistics, the building won’t be fully closed throughout the scheme and of course alternative provision will be in place.
What will happen to the local studies' collection?
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The local studies collection is an important part of our library offer and the collection will remain.
Will there be fewer books?
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The space will increase as we will offer the children’s area from the space that was occupied by the café. We rotate all our library book stock to keep it refreshed. We are able to monitor which books are borrowed and how frequently, so we are aware that we have books on our shelves that are not well used. These books will be removed to make space for books that have a wider appeal.