Gateshead Council: Transforming Libraries

Four library buildings are being refreshed to enable more flexible us of the buildings by local community groups. 

Phase 1 - 2023/24
Crawcrook and Pelaw Library buildings have been refreshed That work included new flooring and lighting installed, interior walls painted throughout. New furniture throughout, including new children's library areas.  

Desks for reading and study, including for laptop users. Creation of space for 1-2-1 meetings through booths and redesigned layout. Public pcs moving to the perimeter of the space, the staff desks reducing in size and new shelving bays on castors gives greater flexibility to set up the library for public group use, workshops and talks. Both buildings continue to function as warm spaces for the public. 

Phase 2 - 2024/25
Blaydon and Birtley Libraries will be refreshed, works are expected to happen over the autumn period. Library users will be kept up to date of plans for the refurbishment through social media and library updates.  

Contact:

Project contact: Rachel Ridley
Email: rachelridley@gateshead.gov.uk 
Phone: 0191 433 3776
Website: Gateshead libraries