Next chapter for renewal of library (From Gazette Series)

Next chapter for renewal of library

DEMOLITION of the library in May Lane, Dursley, which will lead to the construction of new £750,000 premises, will get under way in May.

From the beginning of the month a temporary library will be erected in Castle Street on land owned by Gloucestershire County Council for use during demolition and rebuilding.

It is hoped the new ultra-modern premises will be open by June next year.

The county council has reassured library users their service will not be unduly interrupted.

Planning permission for the new library was granted last month by the council.

Although many residents are not in favour of the design, the authority is enthusiastic about the project.

Portfolio holder for community services Cllr Jeremy Hilton (Lib Dem, Kingsholm), said: "The current library building in May Lane is completely inadequate for providing a modern library service for the community of Dursley.

"The new library will provide personal computers, state of the art IT facilities and the ability to borrow DVDs, videos and CDs.

"The new building will have a open and welcoming atmosphere and, although it will be different from the buildings around it, I hope it will enhance the immediate area and provide the catalyst for regeneration in Dursley."

Dursley county councillor Geoff Wheeler (Lab) has also been a long time supporter of the project.

He said: "Although the design has generated controversy, the new library offers a great opportunity to people in Dursley and the surrounding area for information and learning. It will make a valuable contribution to the town's regeneration.

"The library will provide a real focal point in the town and will be used by more and more people when they discover the many varied services that are on offer there."

Award-inning architects Ridge Consultants have designed and will project-manage construction of the new building.

It will have a 21st century exterior constructed from steel, zinc, polycarbonate and glass.

The modern interior will include art works by the internationally acclaimed glass artist Colin Reid.

To be constructed at an estimated cost of £750,000, the new library will be a two-storey building with almost 500 square metres of floor space dedicated to library services and Stroud District Council's Citizens First information service.

Among will be are seven free-to-use com puters, which will be set up more in the style of an internet caf than a traditional library, a new children's section with interactive features and a host of new books, videos and CDs.