Exeter Children's Library to get a revamp

Libraries Unlimited is thrilled to be part of a collaborative effort to transform Exeter Children's Library into a vibrant, exciting, and inclusive space for young readers.

This project brings together students and community partners, including an industry immersive experience agency, built environment and construction companies, to create a unique space that fosters a love of reading and learning.

By incorporating ideas from school-aged children, the University, businesses and frontline staff, the aim is to design a space that inspires creativity, imagination, and a lifelong passion for literature. Currently in the design phase the project is due to be completed in September 2024.

Rachel Payne, Business Development and Fundraising Manager at Libraries Unlimited said, “Following on from a questionnaire which ran from October to December 2023 open to all children across the wider Exeter area, we used this feedback to inform the design process.

"It was really interesting and maybe a little sad to hear that many young people don’t know how long their libraries will be around for in the future. This project shows more than ever how important preserving these spaces are, and how centric to community they can be. Reading opens up a whole new world, and all children should have access to free books. Libraries Unlimited libraries go beyond books and offer a huge range of activities and spaces for everyone.”

Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs Exeter Library, contacted Dan Howson, Director at Immersive Industry Experiences to project manage, assemble a team of businesses, and engage with local schools and the University. The collaborative team includes Daffne Aguiler, Social Value Manager at Willmott Dixon, Luke Hardware, Director at Progressive Roofing & Cladding, Mark Harris, Director at structurehaus, Steven Western, Senior Architectural Technician at South West Norse and Steve Atkey, Business Development Manager at South West Norse.

The businesses have been working with local schools and the University to run design workshops, and promote the built environment and construction industry as a fantastic career choice, include Mr J Pearce at St Peter’s CofE School and Year 9 & 10 Design Technology & 3D Design students, Tim Halpin, Librarian at Exeter School, and pupil librarians, Steve Brown, Assistant Headteacher, St James School, part of the Ted Wragg Trust and pupils, and Jasper Chun, 4th year Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice at the University of Exeter.

Rachel continued, "Exeter Library is a busy, welcoming hub for all ages. Last year the library ran over 450 activities aimed specifically at those aged between 0 - 18, which were attended by almost 9500 young people. The children’s library and separate teen area are busy and well-loved, but time has taken its toll on the furniture and equipment. It’s been fantastic working with local businesses and the young people of Exeter to see their ideas and imagination for what their space should look like, and I'm really looking forward to the next phase of the project.”

Libraries Unlimited is the Charity that runs the library service in Devon and Torbay, enriching lives and building communities through a year-round programme of cultural events and activities, support for local businesses and entrepreneurs, wellbeing initiatives and educational provision as well as free access to information and resources for all.

Callum Elliott-Archer, Centre Manager of Exeter Library said: "This project is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of investing in our children's futures. We are grateful for the opportunity to create a welcoming and engaging space that will serve young readers and their families for years to come.”

The scale of the project will be dependent on securing grant funding. Either way the organisations involved are committed to delivering an updated, refreshed children’s library.