Upgrades to Beeston Library improve facilities for the community

Through a £1million extensive refurbishment project, Nottinghamshire County Council have delivered a modern, fit-for-purpose recreational space for the community in Beeston, Nottingham.

It is one of four flagship libraries in Nottinghamshire and was designed and developed by Inspire and Arc Partnership, after receiving funding from Nottinghamshire County Council.

The library now features a new roof, windows, ceiling, lights, flooring and heating systems alongside a grand entrance designed to inspire visitors.

A reworked internal layout ensures all areas of the library are accessible and that getting around is easy for users. The new bookshelves are fully stocked with more than 10,000 new books, including fiction and non-fiction for children and adults and the library now benefits from a new IT innovation suite.

The upgrades have enabled the creation of designated rooms. A discovery room provides space for hands on learning, creativity and innovation, whilst a multi-functional room serves as a meeting room or large exhibition space.

Providing state-of-the-art facilities for the community will help to encourage local people to visit, read and spend time in the new, modern environment. As well as attracting new users to the library, it will help boost engagement from current users and enhance their experience.

The building’s flexible spaces will lend themselves perfectly to the extensive future arts and cultural programme lined up. This includes exhibitions, learning activities, workshops, performance, community and family events. Keeping users entertained and inspired while placing the library at the heart of community activity.

The official reopening of the library is scheduled for 9 September, which will be celebrated with a family fun day.

Councillor John Cottee, welcomed the re-opening of the library, saying:

Arc Partnership is committed to helping the public sector deliver efficient buildings and services, which provide high levels of social value and community engagement.

The original article was published in the Nottingham Post, and includes a video tour of the facilities.