Works to modernise and expand the city centre library are being planned by Milton Keynes City Council.
Updates are being made to the first floor to create a more flexible space, and more public computers will join new, adaptable book storage that can be moved around to accommodate different events, activities and community groups.
A dedicated study area will also open next month with seating, desk space and charging capacity for up to 40 people alongside access to the local history collection, parish records and resources like Ancestry.com.
The city council has already moved the children’s library to a larger space on the ground floor, making it more accessible to families, and replaced the library’s lift, as well as major upgrades to its roof. Following the move in September, attendance at ‘storytime’ and musical sessions has increased by 50%.
“Our Central Library isn’t just one of the most iconic buildings in the city, it’s a popular location for residents to meet up, attend clubs and groups and to learn,” said Cllr Lauren Townsend, Deputy Leader of MKCC, “We know that so many people value the resources on offer, including free computer access, which is why we’re looking to expand on that.
"We’re already seeing the positive impact of recent changes and this next phase of work will enable us to ensure the building continues to be a versatile space for our popular services,” she added.
The city council will make a formal decision on November 25 to spend £647K on the next phase of works on Central Library, which is one of 10 run by the council.
Funding will come from a combination of money received from developers, known as Section 106, and government funding specifically allocated to libraries.
