Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries to be refurbished
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Early next year, building improvement work will be carried out at Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries to ensure the sites continue to be modern, flexible and welcoming community spaces.
Both libraries will benefit from improved lighting, decoration and internal fittings. Space for books will remain integral, alongside improved space for community activities.
Work is likely to start in February and the buildings will be closed for around six to eight weeks, with extended books loans available for library customers during the closures. The Readers At Home service will be available to those who are unable to visit another library and some regular events, such as Rhyme Time, will take place at nearby community venues.
Councillor Angela Douglas, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, said:
"Libraries offer so much more than books and the way that they're used by local people is continuing to evolve. Having recently reviewed our library service, we understand the importance of offering more flexible spaces that can be used in different ways, by different groups and organisations, as well as providing the traditional library services."
In 2022, Gateshead residents were invited to use libraries as part of the council's Warm Spaces initiative. Developed in response to the cost of living crisis, the Warm Spaces network gives people access to venues across the borough where people can go to stay warm, enjoy a hot drink and some company.
Councillor Douglas continued:
"Offering a Warm Space is not a new concept for Gateshead Libraries. They have always been warm, welcoming places at the heart of their communities where people can come together and enjoy a range of facilities, activities and services that support their wellbeing. Investment in modern, comfortable and accessible libraries through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is very welcome and I'm looking forward to seeing the end results."
More details will be available soon, including closure dates and more information about the services available to library customers while the buildings are closed.
This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government's Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
For more information, view the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Prospectus and supporting documents on the Gov.uk website (opens new window).
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
Early next year, building improvement work will be carried out at Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries to ensure the sites continue to be modern, flexible and welcoming community spaces.
Both libraries will benefit from improved lighting, decoration and internal fittings. Space for books will remain integral, alongside improved space for community activities.
Work is likely to start in February and the buildings will be closed for around six to eight weeks, with extended books loans available for library customers during the closures. The Readers At Home service will be available to those who are unable to visit another library and some regular events, such as Rhyme Time, will take place at nearby community venues.
Councillor Angela Douglas, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, said:
"Libraries offer so much more than books and the way that they're used by local people is continuing to evolve. Having recently reviewed our library service, we understand the importance of offering more flexible spaces that can be used in different ways, by different groups and organisations, as well as providing the traditional library services."
In 2022, Gateshead residents were invited to use libraries as part of the council's Warm Spaces initiative. Developed in response to the cost of living crisis, the Warm Spaces network gives people access to venues across the borough where people can go to stay warm, enjoy a hot drink and some company.
Councillor Douglas continued:
"Offering a Warm Space is not a new concept for Gateshead Libraries. They have always been warm, welcoming places at the heart of their communities where people can come together and enjoy a range of facilities, activities and services that support their wellbeing. Investment in modern, comfortable and accessible libraries through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is very welcome and I'm looking forward to seeing the end results."
More details will be available soon, including closure dates and more information about the services available to library customers while the buildings are closed.
This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government's Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
For more information, view the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Prospectus and supporting documents on the Gov.uk website (opens new window).
