New chapter for library

Friday April 17, 2009

One of Britain's most innovative public libraries is set to open in the heart of the borough this summer.

The 21st century, state-of-the-art Shepherds Bush Library, situated at Westfield London, will have all the latest technology, including WiFi Internet access and music mixing software and will be so much more than just a place to borrow books from.

The new Shepherds Bush Library will feature:

• More study space with Wi Fi connection and more public access PCs

• The Workzone employment area with interview facilities for job seekers

• New teenage area with computer games, music mixing software and chill-out space

• Self service for borrowing and returning books

• Lots of new books, CDs and DVDs to browse and borrow

• Dedicated spaces for quiet reading and for children's activities

• Meeting and exhibition spaces

• Friendly, floorwalking staff to help customers find what they need

Cabinet member for residents’ services, Councillor Paul Bristow, said: “The new Shepherds Bush Library will be in a prime location at Westfield London. We are taking our services to one of the highest footfall areas in Britain and this truly will be one of Britain's most innovative public libraries.

“It has been designed specifically to cater for our residents’ needs, which are continually changing as more and more technical advances are made. The building will be ideally situated to attract residents who maybe never thought to visit our libraries before and we hope to encourage new customers to come and see what we have on offer - so much more than books.”

The new library, which is just 200 yards from the old Shepherds Bush Library, is on one of the main entrances to the new centre, opposite Debenhams, in Wood Lane and is due to open in late summer this year.

Duncan Bower, Westfield's Development Director, said: "The library will be a great addition to the centre when it opens later this year. Westfield has worked closely with the council to build a contemporary facility which will greatly enhance the offer and services for local residents."

More on libraries including our on-line library service