AN £800,000 plan is under way to refurbish Minehead Library and transform the ageing building into a modern, flexible community space. 

As part of the modernisation, a series of energy-saving measures will be put in place top make the most of the building’s energy consumption, supporting the county council’s commitment to the Climate Emergency Strategy.

Cllr Mandy Chilcott, county cabinet member for resources, said: “This is a fabulous new chapter for Minehead library. We are investing in a greener building which will give the library a modern home. It will be kinder to the environment while better reflecting the needs of our modern society.”

Somerset County Council is funding the £800,000 redevelopment, which will see the building extended and the space reconfigured so it can be better used by the community. 

It is anticipated that the works at the site will start during May and are expected to be complete by December. During that time, the library and registrar’s service will move to the Old Hospital. Customers will be kept updated as dates are confirmed.

As well as the usual services, the temporary library will continue to offer the iPad loaning scheme for jobseekers and online services will always be available, including free e-Books, e-Audiobooks, e-Magazines, newspapers and comics and a programme of activity on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For regular updates, visit the Minehead Library Facebook page or see www.somersetlibraries.co.uk

When the library opened in 1962 it won a civil trust award, but after nearly 60 years of service the building is in need of upgrading, to better serve the 21st Century needs of Minehead and the surrounding area.

All works will be designed with the aim of retaining the spirit of the award-winning original building.

Cllr David Hall, whose cabinet responsibilities includes libraries, said: “Minehead library is an important social space. This new development will give residents a great community facility.”

“They will be able to expand their services and the ways they can help locals and visitors alike. That is not only good news for the people of Minehead but it is good news for generations of them to come.”