The town’s historic Central Library throws open its doors this week to bookworms, history buffs and culture lovers after one of its biggest ever upgrades.
Final works by contractor Aptus have now been completed following a 20-month programme of improvements.
The refurbishment of the Grade ll-listed building on Centre Square followed a successful bid to the Government’s Cultural Development Fund.
The striking building – opened in 1912 with funding from American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie – is a key part of the town’s cultural offer.
Improvements as part of the £1.9m project, funded by the Arts Council, the Future High Streets Fund and Middlesbrough Council, include a full redesign of the main ground floor area to create a children’s library with play areas and family facilities.
A new ICT suite has been developed, within a more cohesive layout which includes new public and flexible event spaces.
Other key improvements include:
• New lift and accessible WCs
• Local/family history space
• New public computers with 24in monitors
• New WiFi, power and data systems throughout the building
• USB connectivity allowing customers to use their own devices
• New furniture, reception desks, shelving and book pods
• New signage.
Sensitive upgrades to the reference library include decoration, new lighting and restoration of the parquet floor and tables, while its historic features remain unchanged.
Councillor Ian Blades, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Neighbourhoods, said: “The Central Library has been a focal point of the town for more than a century, and it’s rightly seen as one of jewels in our crown.
“This fantastic refurbishment has given this wonderful building a whole new lease of life, while retaining the stunning features which keep people coming back throughout their lives.
“These improvements will stand it in good stead for the next century and beyond, helping future generations develop a life-long love of books and creativity.
“I’m enormously grateful to the Arts Council for helping to make this possible – countless lives will be enriched as a result, and that is simply priceless.”
For more information visit the Middlesbrough Libraries website.
