New library for York to include café, play area and events space
Revised plans for a new library for York have been released.
A Clifton Explore centre is planned on the site of the former Clifton Without Junior School off Rawcliffe Lane.
There’s a drop in today (Tuesday, 30 November) at the current Clifton library from 3pm to 4.30pm where you can find out more and ask questions.
In summer, Explore York and City of York Council asked for input from residents on the move, and found 90 per cent were in favour.
They wanted it to include free wifi, a café and spaces for diverse events and activities to bring people together.
People were also keen to see plenty of outdoor space to relax and meet family and friends.
These ideas have been included in the new plans, which will see a 15,400 sq ft library created (the old library was less than 3,000 sq ft).
It will include:
- a main library and events space
- a children’s library
- a reading café
- activity rooms
- and meeting rooms.
The children’s library will open onto the terrace where children can play safely.
What was the old school hall will be a multi-functional space: by day, home to 15,000 books to browse and borrow, and hosting events in the evening.
It will include study space. The activity and meeting rooms can be hired by community groups.
Now is your chance to give your feedback on the plans. To see them in detail and complete a survey go to the Future Clifton Library page on the Explore website.
You can also drop-in to one of the info sessions at the current Clifton library if you have any questions:
- Tuesday 30 November 3pm – 4.30pm
- Saturday 4 December 10.30am – 12 noon
- Thursday 9 December 5pm – 6.30pm
The survey closes on Saturday 11 December.