A library is celebrating the start of a new chapter as it undergoes investment.

Harwood Library is to benefit from ward funding to undergo an upgrade and have specialist equipment installed to ensure more can use the services it offers.

Harwood library, which will celebrate its 55th birthday this December, was invited by Bradshaw and Harwood councillors to provide a project which could increase the services they offer residents.

At a council meeting Sam Elliot, Head of Services for Libraires,  stated that Harwood Library has a very strong record as a “lending library”, due to the demographics of the ward.

Bradshaw Councillors agreed to increase the funding for the project via the community alliance, which will include improving the junior library and buying sensory items that can be used by children with additional learning requirements.

Among the new equipment is a Lego tech machine set, rainbow sensory bricks, antimicrobial bean bags, a teepee and a clear acrylic notice board.

Cllr Les Webb, who represents Bradshaw and Harwood, said: “The funding was started by an initiative from local councillors using ward funds.

“We are keen to provide an environment that encourages child literacy, and we hope this encourages children to become familiar with libraries.

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“We are also delighted that a well-established writing group based at the Harwood Library have contacted us separately for funding to display their work, including poetry.

“We wish for the library to be at the centre of the community and not an after thought. "Questions were raised recently at the council meeting about cuts to libraries and a full review has been muted in next year’s budget.

“Bradshaw councillors are determined to ensure that Harwood Library is not considered following this agreed spend, it’s high footfall and operational excellence.

“So, we have extended this programme for indoor display boards accessible to all Groups using the library to exhibit in the future.”

The investment comes after the transformation of Bolton Central Library, which was unveiled at the start of year.

 

Got a story? Email me at Leah.Collins@newsquest.co.uk