Kinmel Bay, Llanfairfechan and Uwchaled Libraries, Conwy, Wales

The smallest library in Wales?

Is Uwchaled Library in Cerrigydrudion the smallest library in Wales? There's been a library in this village for more than 60 years and it plays a vital role in this small community of less than 1500 people, 70% of them Welsh-speaking.

You might think a small library is easier to design than a large one – you'd be wrong! Fitting everything into a small space, while keeping a feeling of openness, is a real challenge. And then there's the fact that a vital space in a small community will need to double up for meetings of all kinds so it must be flexible. Plus if this library is important to the community, and run by volunteers, you will meet passionate people with ambitious desires and aspirations to get the best from what is likely to be a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to create the library of their dreams.

If we weren't aware of all the above already, winning the tender to refurbish three small libraries in North Wales gave us the proof. We met with each of the volunteer committees on different occasions and discussed in detail what they wanted. We visited sites and discussed the building works planned and how these might link with the interior design. We planned the stock, IT services and operation with staff from Conwy Borough County Council who manage the library service. We discussed furniture and colour choices in detail with trustees and users. Small these libraries may be, but every decision was important.

The result when the libraries re-opened after Opening the Book's fitout made this one of the most rewarding projects we have ever worked on. How important are small libraries? This project in North Wales proved they really matter.

We're absolutely delighted with our refurbished Community Library in Llanfairfechan. The space seems so much bigger than before, and the new furniture showcases the library stock so much more effectively.

Library users have been unanimous in their appreciation. Footfall is well above previous levels. Meanwhile, the Friends of the Library - who are responsible for the running costs of the building - can take advantage of the flexible design to rearrange the space as necessary for community groups who want to hire the library for their activities. We're all winners!

Huw Lloyd Jones
Project Manager, New Chapters and Chair, Friends of Llanfairfechan Community Library

Opening The Book were a pleasure to work with, their expertise and knowledge both in the design and fitting were second to none.

We were very pleased with the colours that we chose, the library looks very bright and cheerful with lots of reflective light from the muted colour scheme. Thank you once again from the trustees and very happy customers.

Morris F Jones
Chair of Friends of Kinmel Bay Community Library