Cathay’s Library will re-open to the public on Saturday (June 26th) following an extensive refurbishment.
Having been closed for nearly 10 months, the work has seen the Edwardian library transformed into an exciting, creative and contemporary space.
The renewed building has an improved layout highlighting the dramatic architectural features, modern furniture, vibrant colours and offering an enhanced range of services which make it an inspiring and stimulating environment in which to work, read, or just sit and relax.
The project, which was led by the Council’s Development, Projects and Partnerships section and the Library Service, has cost around £1 million to complete and was funded by Cardiff Council with an additional grant of £300,000 from the Welsh Assembly Government. The repair and construction work was carried out by ISG Pearce Ltd under the Council’s partnership contract framework. The external area has been re-designed by Cardiff Council’s Parks Services and frames the library’s main entrance.
The modern shelving is stocked with new books – a generous selection of fiction, non-fiction and talking books and DVDs. There is also a designated children’s area, upgraded ICT facilities including WiFi connectivity and 15 public access PCs which are free to use.
The refurbishment includes the re-introduction of the west wing, toilets for public use, and a community room which can be used by local groups for meetings and activities, or can be used as an overspill study space when not booked out.
The library will re-open at 9am on Saturday with a story time session for children under eight at 10.30am. A local poet will be reading some of their works from 11.30am. There will also be a display on the premises by the Friends of Cathays Cemetery which will offer details on guided walks and landmarks.
Councillor Nigel Howells, Executive Member Sport, Leisure and Culture, said: “We are delighted with the outcome of this project which is part of our ongoing libraries development programme. The building has truly been transformed from a traditional library into a contemporary space which offers something for everyone. Cathays is a worthy addition to the list of libraries that have been significantly improved over the last few years, including Penylan, Llanrumney, Grangetown, Llandaff North, Rhydypennau, and of course the Central Library.
“This is a great facility for the community of Cathays and we are delighted to have received funding from the Welsh Assembly Government to assist with the project. I am sure that the public will be delighted with the improvements to the building which is another important step in the Council’s continuing commitment to improving its library service.”
It’s free to join the library. Just bring along one item of ID to sign up (under 16s can use their parent or carer’s ID). For further information, please visit www.cardiff.gov.uk/libraries
