Balsall Heath Library Reopens

Posted on Monday, September 07, 2009 by Peter
Tags: history, Venture

Balsall Heath Library officially reopened this summer following 9 months of closure and extensive repair work. The opening was celebrated with the Balsall Heath Local History Society dressing up as Victorians celebrating the long history of the service and St. Paul’s playscheme showing how important the library is to the community and future generations.

Work on the library is only part way through the repair program with the first phase of work being directed to making the building safe. Further work on the building will be taking place over the next 12 months with scaffolding remaining throughout. The work will ensure that one of Balsall Heath’s historic landmarks once again features in the city’s distinctive skyline.

As well as major roof repairs that were much needed the building has undergone extensive damp proofing. Changes to the layout of the inside of the library have enabled the staff to make better use of the space for its borrowers and provide a more user friendly service.

Councillor Martin Mullaney, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sports and Culture, said: “This is great news for the people of Balsall Heath and we’re delighted the work has been completed and this valuable community resource is up and running once more

“Libraries in 2009 are about more than simply books. A modern library service offers access to the internet, information and advice. So it’s great to see Balsall Heath Library open once more.”

Throughout the summer visitors to the library can view a photographic exhibition depicting Balsall Heaths longest running annual community event, the Balsall Heath Carnival by local photographer Tom Fenn.