BARNSLEY TOWN
chapter A new
Libraries exist to provide equal access to information and enrichment to everyone in the community. Barnsley’s new Library @ the Lightbox forms the cornerstone of the modern town centre with its striking design and transparent glass exterior illuminating the new town square.
The Lightbox is a welcoming hub for the community, offering state-of-the-art technology. A new sophisticated library with dynamic social spaces offers a place to meet and learn in. Each of the four floors offers a range of digital and community services alongside traditional literature. An open-plan design has provided multi- functional welcoming, social spaces for people of all ages.
With almost double the space for IT facilities, the building is designed to meet the needs of future generations of technology-savvy learners. The traditional library has remained a key feature of the Lightbox, with easy access to computers and Wi Fi as well as free printing and photocopying facilities.
Books are still an integral part of the library, with members able to borrow a selection of diverse books from multiple genres.
An exciting feature is the Makerspace lab on the ground floor which has been incorporated to promote interest in science, technology,
‘‘Cutting-edge virtual reality kits are available to use for gaming in simulated and immersive environments or for exercise.’’
engineering and mathematics (STEM) from a young age. Children will be able to learn basic coding subconsciously through stimulating play. By incorporating digital technology with innovative software, interactive story times will be brought to life through images, lights and sounds and will help to develop speech, language and reading.
Cutting-edge virtual reality kits are available to use for gaming in simulated and immersive environments or for exercise enabling users with limited mobility to practice basic movements. A training suite complete with a 65-inch interactive touch screen, tablet computers and a range of other innovative technology can bring people together for presentations or informative talks.
The fully accessible, modern building includes a sanctuary room for people with autism and will play host to a Music and Memories Group supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, designed for people living with dementia and their carers. Visitors will also have access to a range of health and wellbeing services including support for parents and counselling, as well as drop-in sessions with midwives and health visitors. Falco Lounge café, bar and restaurant – adjacent to the library – is now open, providing a new food and drink destination in the heart of the town centre.
Cllr Jenny Platts, spokesperson for Adults and Communities, said: “This modern and adaptable facility is a welcoming hub for everyone to enjoy and will inspire families, individuals, community groups and the next generation to learn, discover and explore.”
The library is filled with natural light from its glass exterior and white bookcases create a calm and serene atmosphere.
The building’s low energy design makes it both economical and sustainable and the usable top floor provides opportunities for functions and events and offers fantastic views over the town. Age UK Barnsley’s Men in Sheds joined in partnership with Barnsley Council to design the bespoke furniture for the Roof Terrace, working together to support the development of the community hub for all to enjoy.
The Men in Sheds group aims to support men aged 50 and over who may have experienced life- changing events such as redundancy, retirement, bereavement and mental or physical ill-health. The sessions allow residents to come together to have a chat over tea and biscuits while learning new skills such as woodworking, IT and art. The team have used their valuable skills to create a set of ten handmade benches and five tables to suit the vibrant and fun interior of the events space.
In the near future, library users can even benefit from self-service access out of hours up to 9pm and on Sundays - which will make the Lightbox even more accessible.
Visit Library @ the Lightbox to see the extraordinary new development for yourself, opening as part of Barnsley’s Big Weekend on 13 and 14 July. Take a virtual tour -
www.ibiviz.com/uk/barnsley _library/
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aroundtownmagazine.co.uk
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