Ebbw Vale, Wales, NP23 6HH
Ebbw Vale Library receives 21st century upgrade
Ebbw Vale Library, part of Aneurin Leisure, is based in a classical, stone-built Bethcar Methodist Chapel. With funding secured from a Welsh Government Grant which aims to establish libraries as community hubs, Ebbw Vale Library is the last of the six Aneurin Leisure libraries in Blaenau Gwent to benefit from refurbishment works.
"The refurbishment will transform service delivery at Ebbw Vale, enabling greater community involvement, improved IT facilities and providing an opportunity to increase our partnership work with a wide range of organisations."
The Brief
Blaenau Gwent Council sought to modernise the existing space without losing any of the traditional features of the historic building which is located in the heart of the town.
With PC’s shoehorned into available spaces and outdated library shelving the existing layout no longer met the needs of the community. The council were looking to create a ‘reader friendly’ environment that is welcoming and inviting to different customer groups, from families to IT users and the elderly.
Innova secured a competitive tender with an innovative design and layout that addressed Ebbw Vale Library’s aim to maximise space, increase overall usage and enable better performing stock.
The Solution
By working with architects and librarians, the upgrade to the late Victorian building has seen cutting edge technology, IT systems and engaging, modern, bespoke library furniture incorporated into the traditional space, whilst remaining sensitive to the building’s history.
Beyond the mix of modern and traditional and the new digital services, the library can now accommodate community activities including art classes and events for children, thanks to its uncluttered, spacious layout.
“This refurbishment has the “Wow” factor in spades. The building is now a modern, contemporary light filled space which is perfect for a library, whilst still retaining the architectural features that make this building such a landmark in the town.”
Upon entry to the refurbished library – a central feature ‘rotunda’ entices visitors to browse, sit and read.
On the ground floor, technology has been integrated seamlessly with dual functioning units incorporating IT hot desks on one side with book shelving on the other. This maximises central space and replaces tightly packed and dated shelving units that left little room for browsers.
The mezzanine first floor now offers a traditional reading environment with ample study facilities and the flexibility for staff to reconfigure the space for events.
The finished facility provides ample space and gives readers a relaxed, uncluttered, high tech environment where they can move effortlessly from one area to the next according to their needs. Ebbw Vale Library is now a valuable, multipurpose space that will engage the community and act as its hub long into the future.
Contact
Are you looking to transform your library? Contact us on 0161 477 5300 or complete the form below:
