Residents share vision for Sidmouth Library

Residents in Sidmouth have been helping shape redevelopment plans for their library.

A recent consultation, which attracted more than 300 responses, aimed to gather the view of residents on how they would like to see the library facilities improved, including what services and activities should be on offer.

Comments and suggestions were looked at carefully, and the designs have been amended to reflect the consultation responses.

The results showed lots of support for improving access for children, young people and their families and plans include moving the children’s library from the first floor to the ground floor and creating a more attractive ‘teen zone’.

Residents also wanted to maintain a dedicated quiet reading and study area which the plans now provide. In addition, the general ambience of the library by making it brighter and more welcoming to encourage visitors. The choice of books will also be improved, with some money set aside to purchase new stock, and a new layout for the shelving will make the library easier to navigate.

Plans also include maximising the use of the space at the library by having a flexible layout which could be used for different activities at different times, as well as developing partnerships with other local organisations that support the community.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said:

“We had an excellent response to the consultation and I am really pleased that so many people in Sidmouth want to be involved in helping shape plans for their library, so thank you all for taking part.

“Sidmouth Library is an important resource at the heart of the community, but over the years people have stopped using it so much, which is a shame.

“By revamping the library we can create an appealing, modern and flexible facility that is fit for the changing needs of the community and that everyone wants to use and can be proud of.

“You told us that you value the reading and information opportunities the library offers, and we intend to improve the environment for reading, learning and other related activities whilst maintaining our core service of books, information and computer access.

“These plans show how, by working with the local community, we can really add value to this project and get the most out of our investment by making best use of the money available to improve the layout and flow of the building so its more accessible and can be used flexibly to accommodate a range of activities and services whilst creating a more welcoming, brighter, more comfortable and inviting library.

“By working together we have created plans to transform the library into an excellent facility that meets local needs, where residents of all ages want to spend longer exploring and enjoying everything Sidmouth Library has to offer them.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council local member for Sidmouth, said:

"I'm delighted that so many library users took the opportunity to take part in the consultation and that the County Council has taken on board many of the suggestions in the amended designs which will bring Sidmouth library into the 21st Century.

"I now look forward to seeing the transformation work begin later this year and for even more residents to enjoy the facilities available."

Full feedback from the consultation will be on display in the library from 31st July throughout August and available on the project’s webpage at www.devon.gov.uk/sidmouthlibraryproject .