Pictured above: Deputy Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, Cllr Lauren Townsend, on the first floor of the city centre library, which is being updated and redesigned
Milton Keynes City Council is planning the next phase of works to modernise and expand its city centre library.
Updates are being made to the first floor to create a more flexible space. More public computers will join new, adaptable book storage that can be moved around to accommodate different events, activities and community groups. A dedicated study area opens next month with seating, desk space and charging capacity for up to 40 people alongside access to the local history collection, parish records and resources like Ancestry.com.
The city council has already moved the children’s library to a larger space on the ground floor, making it more accessible to families, and replaced the library’s lift, as well as major upgrades to its roof.
Since the children’s library move in September, attendance at ‘storytime’ and musical sessions has increased by 50%.
Central Library is one of ten libraries run by the city council with support from local volunteers and welcomes more than 4,000 residents each week. As well as a massive collection of traditional books, manga and graphic novels, plus free to use computers, the library offers a wide range of free events, activities and regular clubs that help develop key skills and reduce social isolation. This includes Lego and Duplo club, Conversation Club (for residents developing their English skills), Knit and Natter groups and one-to-one computer help.
Pictured above: Central Library covers an area larger than ten tennis courts over two floors including an expanded children’s library and this week, a new lift was completed
The city council will make a formal decision on 25 November to spend £647K on the next phase of works on Central Library. Funding comes from a combination of money received from developers, known as Section 106, and government funding specifically allocated to libraries.
“Our Central Library isn’t just one of the most iconic buildings in the city, it’s a popular location for residents to meet up, attend clubs and groups and to learn. We know that so many people value the resources on offer, including free computer access, which is why we’re looking to expand on that. We’re already seeing the positive impact of recent changes and this next phase of work will enable us to ensure the building continues to be a versatile space for our popular services.”
For more information on free services, upcoming events and clubs, please visit www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/libraries