New library opens with community activities

The King Cross library, which opens at 10am, is designed to be a versatile cultural and community space to accommodate a broad range of events and activities.

Councillor David O'Neill, Calderdale Council's portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said he was delighted the library was ready.

"The new library will provide huge improvements for the local community.

"The space will enable the delivery of a variety of events and activities for a wide range of library visitors of all ages and interests. I believe the library will become a real asset for those living in the area," he said.

The old library closed on Monday so that stock and equipment could be moved to the new building, paid for with contributions from the Big Lottery Community Libraries Fund and Calderdale Council.

Story and activity sessions in the new children's library or in the garden will be held during the first week and staff will help register new members and show people around.

The King Cross Library Readers' Group will meet there for the first time next week.

From next month, as well as activities linked to reading for both children and adults, there will be sessions on healthy living, reminiscence workshops, a film club, adult education classes and ICT for beginners.

The library will have wide appeal to everyone, says Calderdale Council.

Like all Calderdale libraries, it also supports "free membership, free internet access and free thinking".

The library's official opening will be on October 2 with guests including the Mayor of Calderdale Councillor Ann McAllister and writer and broadcaster, Ian Clayton.