DESIGNING LIBRARIES
gies, while remaining flexible enough to support a range of community uses. Leeds Libraries have been running Studio 12, a digital media project for people aged 16 to 30, since 2003. It offers free access to a production studio, training and a network of industry professionals from across the creative industries. They feature professional software and hardware to create electronic music, along with a bookable recording booth for vocals.
The Henry Watson Music Library, within Manchester Central Library, offers a vast collection of printed music, orchestral and choral sets, books on music, CDs and DVDs for loan, and a world-renowned research collection of manuscripts and early printed music. For those interested in creating music, there are computers for composing, a mixing desk for would-be DJs, and a collection of bookable instruments to learn to play. The Creative Space at Wythenshawe Forum Library,
sup ported through Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund, offers hands-on opportunities in music production, DJ-ing, podcasting, songwriting and live per- formance, alongside access to professional-quality facilities and industry-led workshops. Young people can develop cre- ative and technical skills, collaborate with other musicians and gain valuable performance experience. The project aims to enhance Wythenshawe’s cultural scene, expand the library’s facilities and increase community access to creative opportunities. It won the Libraries Connected Culture and Creativity Award in 2025.
Designing spaces that nurture talent What connects these varied examples is not simply the availability of equipment but the design of the spaces them- selves. Whether incorporating recording booths, performance areas, digital production suites or makerspaces, successful library projects create environments where creativity feels welcomed and accessible. Library designers are increasingly considering factors such as acoustic treatment, adaptable layouts, technology integra- tion and visibility. Creative spaces work best when they are highly accessible and clearly integrated into the wider library, signalling that making, experimenting and performing are valued activities alongside reading and learning. As libraries continue to evolve into community hubs, music
provision offers an excellent example of how well- designed spaces can support social inclusion, skills development and cultural participation.
What goes around comes around In Coventry the connection between music and libraries has come full circle. The city’s central library is housed in what was once the Locarno Ballroom, opened in 1960 by the Mecca Leisure Group. Part of a post-war building pro- gramme to regenerate the city after heavy bombing during World War II, the dance hall boasted a revolving stage and hosted legendary acts including the Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Who. It stood empty after closing in 1981 and reopened as the Central Library in 1986. Since 2016 it has been hosting Get it Loud in Libraries gigs featuring artists including Fon- taines D.C., IDLES and Jorja Smith. Live music, it seems, is still part of the building’s DNA.
The former ballroom lost its revolving stage and sprung dance floor on conversion, but the deep balcony around all four sides was incorporated into the library layout. External glass mosaic murals by Fred Millet were also retained. The building has been Grade II listed since 2018.
Welcome boost for music, creativity and library design This new initiative will provide welcome investment for libraries across England. Beyond purchasing equipment, it offers an opportunity to rethink how library spaces can sup- port creativity and cultural participation. For designers, architects, library leaders and local authorities, the programme reinforces an important message: libraries are not simply repositories of knowledge but platforms for cre- ativity. Whether through performance spaces, makerspaces, recording facilities, digital production studios or flexible event areas, the design of library buildings can help unlock talent and provide opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable. Research continues to demonstrate the positive impact of music on wellbeing, confidence and social connection. By creating spaces where people can listen, learn, perform and produce music, libraries are helping communities thrive. The Music in Libraries programme represents not only an invest- ment in music, but an investment in the future role of the library as a creative, inclusive and inspiring civic space. IP
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www.designinglibraries.org.uk
The Last Dinner Party at Blackpool Library. Photo © Little Wing Photography August-September 2026 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL 11
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