'Minehead library is an important social space' says officials as upgrade begins
Plans are underway to modernise Minehead's ageing Library - which was award-winning in the 1960s but now needs upgrading.
The £800-thousand redevelopment is being funded by Somerset County Council and includes a number of changes to save energy.
It's expected work will start in May and finish by December. The work is part of the council's Climate Emergency Strategy
A council spokesperson said: "During the extensive works the library and registrar’s service will relocate to the Old Hospital, allowing residents continued access to their services throughout 2021.
"When the library opened in 1962 it won a civil trust award, but after nearly sixty years of service the building is in need of upgrading, to better serve the twenty first century needs of Minehead and the surrounding area.
"All works will be designed with the aim of retaining the spirit of the award-winning original building.
"The building will allow more options for everyone to use the space and access vital community services, keeping the library at the centre of Minehead life."
Councillor Mandy Chilcott, Somerset County Councillor Cabinet member for resources, added: "This is a fabulous new chapter for Minehead Library. We are investing in a greener building which will give the library a modern home. It will be kinder to the environment whilst better reflecting the needs of our modern society."
Councillor David Hall, whose Cabinet responsibilities includes libraries, said: "Minehead library is an important social space. This new development will give residents a great community facility.
"They will be able to expand their services and the ways they can help locals and visitors alike. That is not only good news for the people of Minehead, but it is good news for generations of them to come."