Extensive work has been done to the roof, floors and internal decoration, transforming the library hub into a bright, contemporary space for local people and businesses to meet, learn, work and socialise.
The upgrade takes the 116 year old library into an exciting new chapter, and the library hub is celebrating its re-launch with activities, a showcase of some great community services and refreshments.
Library Hub
The newly decorated lending library has a wide and up to date range of books and other media with an efficient ordering service for anything not in stock. There is free wi-fi access and computers to use, as well as copying and scanning facilities. There are different size spaces available for hire, these are suitable for meetings, conferences, learning and educational events, community group activities, for local business use, parties and much more. There are also car park spaces for hire at reasonable rates.
Apart from the regular library reading group and parent and toddler session, there will also be:
- a new coding club
- a children’s Chatterbooks group
- a teenage debate group
- a homework club
- a reading for well-being group
- the return of the weekly Saturday storytime
The library hub is also going to be operating community outreach programmes, regular activities for adults and children, and education and volunteering opportunities. There is also the coffee shop which provides healthy food options. More will be added in the future as the service develops.
In partnership with Crystal Palace Transition Town, the library hub is crowdfunding to create a new Library of Things where people can borrow a wide range of items, from a drill or a bike to a guitar or camping equipment, all for a fraction of the normal rental cost.
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Sonia Winifred, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture, said: “I’m delighted that the Upper Norwood Library Hub is ready to reopen, with an even greater offer and refurbished so that it can be a real community asset long into the future. We are excited to continue our work with the Upper Norwood Library Trust, who have fantastic plans for the Hub, alongside the much-loved library. I’m sure many more local people will benefit from the opportunities now on offer.”
‘Delighted’
Co Hub Director, Emily Jewell, said: “With the support of Lambeth and Croydon Councils, we now have a building fit for the 21st century. We are very delighted with the refurbishment and the transformation of the library hub, and pleased to be offering such a wide and exciting range of programmes, services and activities for our community”.
For further information on services and activities, email info@unlt.org, visit the library hub website or just pop in and see what’s on offer.
Further information about the Upper Norwood Library Hub and Library of Things can be found at:
