Residents of Twyford will soon have a fantastic community space to use when the new Twyford Library opens its doors next month.
The library is moving from its existing dated site off Polehampton Close, to a new home in the former Old Polehampton Boys School on the opposite side of the Close.
The move has allowed the council to create a new library space which benefits from features including improved spaces with high ceilings, and large windows letting in natural light.
The new library also includes a children’s area, and a new extension which offers an accessible entrance and additional space.
As well as offering browsing space for books and resources, the library will also continue to offer popular facilities including access to computers, seating to relax and tables for those wanting to study or catch up.
It will also be the perfect space for some of the events hosted in the library. which include regular book groups, knit and natter sessions, and rhyme time and story time sessions for families.
The new library will also benefit from new shelving units and furniture, which has been supported through a developer contribution grant from Twyford Parish Council.
In addition to providing an improved library space for the village, the project has also helped secure the future of the old Polehampton Boys School, and bringing it back into community use.
The Grade-II listed landmark has been leased to the council by the Polehampton Trust, after sitting empty for many years. Throughout the project, the council and its contractors have worked closely with the local Heritage Officer to ensure the building could be restored to a high standard, sympathetic to its heritage – whilst integrating modern elements including underfloor heating. and a platform lift to help those with mobility issues navigate the space.
Cllr Stephen Conway, leader of the council, said: “Local libraries offer so much more for people than just books.
“They offer a lifeline for the community, and especially for those who might be struggling or feeling isolated. Whether it’s accessing services like free internet and books or joining in with some of the activities like the knit and natter sessions where anyone can come along and have a chat with others whilst enjoying some crafts.
“Libraries really are at the heart of their communities and I’m proud that we’ve been able to deliver this fantastic new facility for Twyford, and bring this important local landmark back to life.
“This project has been a real labour of love for all involved and we can’t wait to share it with you when it opens next month.”
Cllr Martin Alder, chairman of Twyford Parish Council, added: “The opening of our wonderful new library is a fantastic achievement for those, past and present, who have worked diligently towards this goal for so many years.
“It will provide the community with the type of first-class resource that it deserves, and one which the Parish Council is proud to have been able to support.
“Our heartfelt thanks to all of those who worked together to achieve this marvellous outcome.”
In order to move everything to the new building, the existing library will need to close on Saturday, June 1, at 12.30pm at the end of half-term. The council will then start the process of packing up the books and resources, before moving them to the hub and unpacking it ready for the opening of the new library on Thursday, June 13, at 2pm.
During the time that Twyford library is closed, members will be able to use other libraries across the borough, as well as ongoing access to the library digital services, which includes thousands of online newspapers, magazines e-books and audiobooks you can download for free.
Overdue charges will also be suspended at Twyford Library during the closure for the move.
After the opening on June 13, the new Twyford Library will be accessed via the modern extension off Polehampton Close and will continue to open at the usual hours.
Following the move, visitors will no longer be able to access services from the old library building. The council will be considering a number of options for the old building over the coming months as part of its ongoing asset review.
