The Library @ the Lightbox opens in Barnsley

Lighting up the town

The four floors of this new glazed building (forming part of The Glass Works, a retail and leisure development) will offer flexible reading, study and events spaces and, in the words of the council’s public statement, “ light up the new town square and invite people inside.”

The Library @ the Lightbox forms the cornerstone of the town centre redevelopment, with its striking design and transparent glass exterior that will illuminate the new town square as the regeneration edges towards a 2021 completion.

Each of the four floors provides a range of digital services including virtual reality, a training suite complete with a 65-inch interactive touch screen, tablet computers and a variety of innovative technology.

The fully accessible modern building includes a sanctuary room for people with autism, and will play host to a Music and Memories Group supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, designed for people living with dementia and their carers.

The Makerspace lab on the ground floor will be used to promote interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) from a young age. Children will also be able to learn basic coding through stimulating play.

By incorporating innovative digital technology, story times will be brought to life through images, light and sound, and will help to develop speech, language and reading. Virtual reality kits are available for gaming in simulated and immersive environments or for exercise, enabling users with limited mobility to practise basic movements.

The library’s events space will act as a multi-purpose venue able to hold large events, workshops and activities, while its rooftop terrace will offer fantastic views of the town centre.

The building’s low energy design makes it both economical and sustainable, and the usable top floor provides opportunities for functions and events.

Interior design and furnishing by thedesignconcept.