Work is now complete on the refurbishment of Armley Library and Community Hub, one of Armley Town Street’s most iconic buildings, writes Jo Fiddes.
Opened in 1902, this Grade II listed building has seen thousands of people pass through its’ doors in the past 120 years. The most famous library user is probably the writer Alan Bennett, who was a frequent visitor to the library as a young boy.
The refurbishment began before the pandemic, and after a brief pause during lockdown, the refurbishment of the library area is now complete.
Whilst the community Hub has remained open and provided a vital service over the past few months, the lending library is only just back up and running.
Due to current guidelines however, you are still not allowed to browse the bookshelves.
Instead, the library are operating a click and collect book service. You can order your books online, or phone the library where a member of staff will make some suggestions based on your personal reading preferences.
Charlotte Batty, Community Hub Manager West North West, said:
“I’m immensely proud of our refurbished library and can’t wait to show it off properly when coronavirus guidelines allow.
“It has been a real labour of love but it’s all come together beautifully and we now have a building fit for the demands of the 21st-century without having lost any of our cultural heritage. As a community hub and library will be able to offer not just the library but also free computers, Wi-Fi, help with council services jobs support, Credit Union and much more.”
Why is it that I can browse books in a bookshop and buy any which I want but am unable to go to my local library and do the same thing? Been waiting for books from the library for months. Very disappointed with the service.