New and improved Almondbury Library set to open its doors
Almondbury Library is set to move into its new building. We are inviting the community to join us at the official launch on Saturday, 13th July from 10am to 4pm. The opening ceremony will be at 2pm.
When will the library move?
The library will move out of the current location on Stocks Walk on 7 June, and will re-open its doors within the new Community Hub on Farfield Road on the 17 June.
Will there be different opening times?
During the engagement process library users and the wider community in Almondbury said that they would like the new library to be open on a Saturday morning.
We have changed our opening hours to: Monday 1pm to 5pm, Tuesday 10am to 1pm, Wednesday Closed, Thursday 2pm to 7pm, Friday Closed, Saturday 10am to 1pm, Sunday Closed.
Why has is the library moving?
Moving to the new Community Hub will mean people can access a wider range of services under one roof, including support for children and families, help and advice, activities for older people, community events – as well as the traditional library service valued by residents.
The move and refurbishment of Almondbury Library has allowed Kirklees Council to create Kirklees’ first dementia-friendly library. As part of the refurbishment, the council has used a number of subtle design features to ensure that it is a more inclusive environment for people living with dementia.
Having the library within the new Community Hub will help to better link with partners and other services to tackle social isolation and support vulnerable people.
Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet member for Corporate Services, said:
“This is an exciting development for the residents of Almondbury, who will benefit from having a modern, up-to-date library with additional public computers, parking and easy access for all members of the community.
Modern-day libraries operate in a much different way to how they used to. Libraries now offer a much more comprehensive service to our residents and as such we need to ensure that the buildings are fit for today. This will mean a very short gap in service while we get the new facility ready.
I’m proud that in creating a dementia-friendly environment, this library will be an inclusive, accessible and welcoming space for everyone. It will lead the way for future developments throughout our library service.
It’s a great example of how a purpose-built library in a flexible and shared building can facilitate other activities taking place, offering more support to the community under one roof. It will also provide stronger community partnerships and joint-working with other council services, which can only be beneficial to the Almondbury community.”
Carol Stump, Chief Librarian, Libraries Kirklees said:
“It’s an exciting time for the Library Service and the Almondbury community as this move will mean the library service is available more often and will be more centrally located for visitors.”
What could the library look like?
We have some exciting proposals for the interior of the new library, please be aware that they may be subject to change.
What happens if I have a book out on loan?
We will be automatically extending the loan period of books during the short time the library is closed, but you can return books to any library, the nearest being Kirkburton library or Huddersfield library.
How can I get involved?
If you’d like to get involved you can become a volunteer at the library. Our volunteers across Kirklees Libraries tell us that some of the reasons why they value volunteering is to reduce their loneliness, learn new skills and give something back to their communities. If you want to find out more please email us at volunteer.recruitment@kirklees.gov.uk or call 01484 221000.
Want to find out more about our libraries?
You can find out more about our libraries on our website or on Facebook