New community library takes shape

Construction works have begun to bring a much-needed new library to the local community in Haxby and Wigginton, with the arrival of diggers in recent weeks.

City of York Council, Explore Libraries and Haxby and Wigginton Youth and Community Association are working together to co-locate a new library at Oaken Grove Community Centre. The new facility will replace the old library in Haxby, which was closed in 2016 on the grounds of public safety.

The new library will be open 6 days a week and a new reading café, run by Explore, will provide the community and customers visiting the centre with a place to relax and enjoy refreshments inside and outside.

The new venue is expected to be open later this year.

Key features of the build include:

• a new extension to the side of the community centre which will house the new library and reading cafe at the front of the building, with the community rooms for hire to the rear
• a new central entrance with improved storage space for pushchairs and buggies leading into a central café and seating area for all to enjoy
• a children’s and adult library, with new shelving, nooks and crannies for children to explore, a separate area for teenagers
• PCs available for use by residents
• a new kitchen to support the new reading café offering barista style coffee options, snacks and able to offer hot meals for specific events or if demand requires
• an outdoor terrace area will provide space to read a book or enjoy the peaceful garden
• extended free public Wi-Fi
• improvements to the fabric and energy efficiency of the building with
  • enhanced insulation
  • LED lighting throughout
  • new gutters and facia
  • new aluminium double glazed windows to enhance the appearance and reduce future maintenance costs
• refurbished toilets to reflect the rest of the new build
• a new more efficient heating system for the building
• reconfiguration and refurbishment of the existing community rooms with new acoustic dividing walls to improve the flexibility of use, new floor coverings and decoration
• 2 newly marked disabled bays in the car park
• new covered cycle shelter

Local Councillor Andrew Hollyer commented:

“A new library for Haxby and Wigginton is one of our key priorities for the area. This once-in-a-generation investment builds on our belief that libraries are key in supporting strong local communities and resident wellbeing.

“I’m proud that at a time when library services across the country are being cut, this administration is investing to produce world-class facilities that will make a real difference in our community.

“Speaking with local residents, I know how important the local library is for the area so it’s exciting to see the plans become reality as work starts on the site.”