Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre

Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre brings together children's, adult and reference libraries, a performance space, IT provision and teaching rooms under one roof.

The building shares an entrance with the adjoining Gallery Oldham and is the second phase of the new cultural quarter in Oldham.

Services and facilities are provided over two floors:

Ground floor:

General lending stock - fiction, non-fiction, community languages, large print, talking books, CDs, DVDs and computer games

Public access PCs

Formal and Informal seating and tables

Teaching rooms

Photocopying facilities

Meeting and interview rooms

Library and Lifelong Learning information points Creche and childcare facilities Staff accommodation and administration rooms Public toilets with baby changing facilities Prayer room Home Library Service information point Performance Space - 80 seater multi-purpose, fully enclosed space Express Library - self-return and issue

First Floor:

Children's Library - books and computer facilities, storytelling area with a commissioned jungle-themed curtain by artist David Burns.

Teenage Library - incorporating a dedicated Homework Centre and young people's space.

Reference and Information Services - magazines, newspapers, books, encyclopaedias, maps, directories, guides, business information and online databases with accommodation for 150 people.

Teaching rooms for Lifelong Learning courses.

Specialist craft rooms and a dedicated dark room.

Environmental features:

Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre received a BREEAM BRE Environmental Assessment Method rating of "Very Good".

Rainwater is collected from a sedum roof, treated and stored. This is then pumped to flush the toilets throughout the building and reduce mains water usage.

The building relies predominantly on natural ventilation and light to minimise energy consumption.

Awards

Winner Public Project of the Year at 2006 Builder and Engineer Awards, , Shortlisted for Prime Minister's Better Public Building Award 2007, , Shortlisted for British Construction Industry Awards 2007, , Shortlisted for LABC Built In Quality Awards 2006