Scarborough library reopens after £450,000 refurbishment

The library benefited from a £450,000 refurbishment project which saw the building transformed to create a brighter, more attractive space.

A new IT area as well as a common and exhibition room are among the highlights in addition to new shelves and furniture, charging stations for devices, renovations and carpets.

The children’s area has been moved to the front of the building in a larger, brighter area with better facilities for children and families. Funding has also been made available for a number of new books.

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North Yorkshire Libraries Council Executive Member Cllr Simon Myers was on hand to greet customers, as well as staff and volunteers.

“It’s great to welcome loyal customers back to the library and to see how they are responding to the much-needed improvements,” said Cllr Myers. “We implemented the designs based on suggestions from local people and partner organisations.

“We are incredibly grateful to have received the funds needed to carry out the work in addition to the funds invested by the local council. Our libraries are valued by residents, so we want to ensure they meet the ever-changing needs of the community.

“I hope that the news about the improvements will attract new visitors. We can’t wait to resume the popular events and take advantage of the vibrant space.”

The library will resume hosting its popular weekly events. This includes events and activities for children under five with story hours Mondays at 11am, rhyming hours Wednesdays at 11am and games and games Fridays at 11am.

On Wednesdays, the Knit and Natter Club meets from 2pm to 4pm and the Stitch Club from 4pm to 6pm. There is a breastfeeding class on Fridays from 9.30am to 11am and on Saturdays there is a social gathering from 10am to 2pm with games, Lego bricks and the opportunity to chat.

To celebrate the reopening, artist Liz Million is hosting a seaside cartoon-making session on Tuesday, May 30, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tickets are free and can be picked up at the library or via the links on the Scarborough Library Facebook page.

To implement the latest improvements, the library secured £200,000 from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sports/Arts Council England Libraries Improvement Fund.

Supported by a further £250,000 investment from the former North Yorkshire County Council, the ground floor was transformed to create a brighter, more attractive space.