New page in saga as library finally opens (From Gazette Series)

New page in saga as library finally opens

'AN ASSET to Dursley', that is what local councillors have called the controversial new library which opened this week.

Dursley Library finally opened its door on Monday and despite residents' well-known reservations, council officials have declared the £875,000 project a success.

Town mayor Jane Ball said the new library was something for Dursley people to be proud of.

She said: "I like it. I haven't been in a library for a number of years. The children's area is fantastic and there is so much available like DVDs and listening books.

"This library is such an asset, it will be well used."

The building, which has been the butt of many jokes over recent months, is the first new library to be built in Gloucestershire for 15 years. Gloucestershire County Council has spent £80,000 on books and new media alone.

A colourful and spacious interior design allows visitors to mingle among the books and facilities. The library boasts a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books and a children's section with plenty of reference books to help with homework. The library also has 12 broadband computers and one computer providing access to the library's catalogue.

In addition to all this are several outlets for community organisations including the Citizen's Advice Bureau, GL11, the Learning Community (TLC), Connexions and Stroud District Council Citizens First Service.

John Holland, assistant head of library and information at the county council, encouraged people to use the new public facility.

He said: "This library represents the future. It is a library for the 21st century. This building is a breath of fresh air into public life.

"This facility is free and for everyone to use."

Dennis Andrewartha, county councillor and chairman of Cam Parish Council, said he was very impressed with the new facility.

He said: "It is fantastic. As Cam parish chairman this is the first time I can say I'm jealous of Dursley.

"It is going to be a sight-seeing attraction for the town and the whole area."

Reporter Liza-Jane Gillespie hit the streets of Dursley this week to find out more about people's first impressions of the new library.