Kate Kniveton MP has welcomed the news that Burton Library has been awarded £265,000 from the Government’s Libraries Improvement Fund.
Staffordshire County Council has confirmed that the funding will be used to refresh the town’s existing library space. Improvements will include new shelving, multisensory equipment and an enhanced digital offer. Library staff will also be asking customers for feedback and ideas on how Burton’s library facilities could be improved and what else they might like to see.
Today’s investment is in addition to funding already allocated as part of the Burton Town Deal to carry out much-need work to the exterior of the building. A new ceiling is set to be constructed later in the year as part of wider programme of planned renovation works to the library building. Currently the town’s library is temporarily closed as a precautionary measure whilst safety inspections and repairs are undertaken to interior structures that are causing concern.
The Government’s £20.5 million Libraries Improvement Fund will transform library services in England to upgrade their builds and improve digital infrastructure. This is the second round of the fund with 25 projects already benefiting from £5 million of funding in the first round.
Commenting, Kate Kniveton MP said:
“I delighted that over a quarter of a million pounds has been awarded to Burton Library to be used to enhance its facilities. Burton Library is one of Staffordshire’s busiest libraries and earlier this month we celebrated World Book Day, highlighting the value of reading.
The Government’s Libraries Improvement Fund will make a big difference to our town’s library and residents will be able to enjoy new and improved facilities as a result of this funding.
I am pleased that Staffordshire County Council has confirmed that residents’ views on how to improve the existing site will be taken into account. Upgrades to Burton’s library are a key focal point of the town centre regeneration work and I look forward to seeing the difference this additional investment makes to our town’s library.”
Commenting, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said:
“This investment will help to level up access to arts and culture for everyone, no matter where they live.
“Culture helps us create lifelong memories with our families and friends, provides entertainment and joy, and allows us to explore the world around us in new and exciting ways. It can also boost tourism, support local business and drive local economic growth.
“This funding will support brilliant arts organisations to upgrade their venues and create new projects that will be at the heart of their communities.”
