Withington Library reopened on Monday 22 October following a substantial refurbishment. The library now boasts two new meeting rooms and extended areas for children and teenagers, plus new furniture, computers and book stock.
The project also involved extensive repair and maintenance work, including work to repair the building’s roof, a full redecoration, plus the installation of new and improved lighting and shelving.
The building, which is one of Manchester’s Carnegie libraries, first opened its doors in 1927 and at the age of 91, was in need of work to ensure that it can continue to serve future generations of Withington residents.
The library’s Wolfson children’s area – a welcoming space for children which offers free activities – has been extended during the refurb, with a new teenage area added, providing local young people with a comfortable space for studying.
In addition, thanks to a new Open+ self-service system, members will be able to access the library for extended hours, six days per week (Monday – Saturday). To find out more and register for Open+, which increases opening times for the library from 45 staffed hours to a total of 65 hours per week, speak to staff at the library and bring a form of ID which shows your address. Under 18’s can only use the library during Open+ hours if accompanied by an adult.
Executive Member for Schools, Culture and Leisure, Councillor Luthfur Rahman, said: “By investing in Withington Library, we’ve made significant improvements for the long-term benefit of local residents, ensuring that the building is fit to serve as a comfortable, accessible free space for learning and leisure for generations to come.
“We look forward to welcoming members back to their refurbished library, which is a cherished asset for the local community.”