New and modern premises on the books for Dewsbury Library
We’re pleased to announce that after a period of public consultation, a decision has been made to move the library service in Dewsbury to a new and modern home. It is planned for the service to move from its existing premises on Railway Street to the Walsh Building next to Dewsbury Town Hall.
Reason for relocation
A review of council assets last year identified an opportunity to refurb and enhance the use of the Walsh Building turning it into a modern hub for services that could include the library. A consultation was held to gather feedback on the proposals from library users, community groups, staff, councillors and the public and a decision was subsequently made to move premises. The results of the consultation can be viewed on our Involve platform.
Dewsbury regeneration
The rationale to relocate the library service also ties in with wider town regeneration plans – the Dewsbury Blueprint. Several projects are already on the ground or completed including the start of improvements to the area outside the Walsh Building and town hall that will make our civic buildings more inviting and nicer places to be – not just for the vital services they provide but also for the fantastic public events they host. By bringing the library closer to the centre of Dewsbury it is hoped it will contribute to an increased footfall in the town.
Will anything be different in the new location?
Earlier in February, councillors approved proposals that would allow the integration of customer service functions with libraries at ten locations including Huddersfield and Dewsbury. This would mean people could access the support they needed, when they needed it and closer to home. We have already done this in Huddersfield where the library is now called ‘Huddersfield Library Hub’.
An integrated service offer is also available from the existing Dewsbury Library location (Railway Street) and there will be a formal name change once the service has moved into its revamped facilities in the Walsh Building.
Once the library service has moved into the Walsh Building it will be known as the ‘Dewsbury Library Hub’.
Services available from Dewsbury Library Hub
A wide range of events and activities for all ages will continue to be available from the library hub including story times, rhyme times and those all-important Knit and Natter groups. We also have exciting plans to offer an improved Makerspace facility but more coming on that soon.
Just like at Huddersfield, access to digital and telephony support including IT and Wi-Fi will still be available to ensure people can access the support they need especially for those people who struggle to access digital technology. Staff will be available to enable elderly residents to access the support they need, and the library hub will continue to be a Warm Space for people to come together with friends for a cuppa in the winter months.
When will the refurb happen?
Refurb works to the Walsh Building are planned to start next Spring and we’ll share updates when we can.