Brierley Hill Library

The library is a 1970's building on the High Street. Downstairs the space is of a single shop unit which leads to a substantial upper floor with office accomodation and library. The building features distinctive overhanging windows. The project was to bring in partners to provide better services for the public and to reduce costs for all services.

Having a small ground floor area and a large upstairs area created the need for staffing levels that could not be sustained. The library sought out the Citizens Advice Bureau and the authorities Housing service as partners and put forward a project plan to redesign the interior downstairs to incorporate the housing service with a pleasant and functional entrance up to the library on the first floor. The library has RFID self service, People's Network computers, Wifi for public and Council use, and a newly refurbished lift. The offices have been converted to accomodate the CAB telephone service, offices and 4 interview rooms, whilst the CAB a shares customer contact point with the library. Housing services operate from the ground floor.

Awards

Winner of EDGE2012 Award : Physical category