Library Modernisation Programme

The new facility will open on July 28 at Dudley Wood Neighbourhood Learning Centre, replacing the existing library on Bush Road, which will close on July 26.

 

The library link will include the borough’s first self issue kiosk.  This is easy to use and will free up staff time to help library link users get the most out of the service.  People will be guided on how to use the kiosk once the library link opens.

 

In addition, following consultation with local residents, councillors and community groups, the decision about where to locate Quarry Bank Library Link has been made.

 

It will be based in Quarry Bank Community Centre on the High Street, replacing the existing library at the top of the High Street.  The council will work closely with Quarry Bank community association to develop the services available at the centre.

 

Four potential sites were identified for the Library Link and following assessment and consultation, the community centre was found to be the most suitable.

 

The plan is to close Quarry Bank Library once the new Library Link is ready to open.  The council looks forward to working in partnership with the Community Association and aims to complete the preparations by the end of the year.

 

Both Library Links will provide more than 1,500 books, computer access, a personal service from library staff for at least 10 hours a week and activities such as homework clubs and reading group’s as requested by the local community.  

 

They are funded through capital resources identified as part of the library modernisation programme, which was approved by cabinet and ratified by council in December 2007.

 

Extended opening hours

 

As part of the modernisation programme extended opening hours have been introduced at four of the borough’s libraries.

 

Dudley, Stourbridge, Kingswinford and Gornal libraries are the first libraries to extend their opening hours including Sunday opening at Dudley and Stourbridge as part of an improved library service. 

 

Sunday opening is already proving a success with more than 150 people visiting each Sunday.