Hucknall Library will reopen at 9am on Thursday, 30th January, after undergoing refurbishment as part of continued improvement works across Nottinghamshire libraries.
The library closed in October to accommodate improvement works funded by the Libraries Improvement Fund in collaboration with Nottinghamshire County Council. The renovations provide upgraded spaces and facilities to allow for improved flexibility and enhanced use of the building, as well as providing access to a customer toilet.
Additional improvements include redecoration and recarpeting of public areas, a reconfigured layout to create more flexible spaces, and new shelving, furniture, and signage to provide a welcoming, modern environment. The improved library will provide more books and bring more culture, arts, heritage, learning, and events to the Hucknall community.
Opening Hours:
Monday: 9.00 – 5.00
Tuesday: 9.00 – 6.00
Wednesday: 9.00 – 5.00
Thursday: 9.00 – 5.00
Friday: 9.00 – 5.00
Saturday: 9.00 – 4.00
Sunday: Closed
When the library opens on 30th January, visitors can be inspired by ‘Sherwood Forest Up Close’ in the improved exhibition space. During the February half-term, the library will host the popular Festival of Science and Curiosity, and children can enjoy the ‘Cinderella Ice Cream Seller’ family theatre show.
Regular groups will return to the library on reopening day, Thursday, 30th January, with ‘Rattle, Rhyme and Roll’ for babies and toddlers at 11am. Adult learners can explore the improved spaces and facilities with courses in health and wellbeing, arts and crafts, IT, and digital skills starting at the end of February.
The local heritage area in the library has been improved to provide better access to resources for researching local and family heritage. The local history group will return on Saturday, 1st February. Heritage Librarians will offer opportunities for visitors to learn more, starting with the ‘Exploring Local Newspapers’ session on 24th March.
Reconnect with your local community at ‘Places of Welcome’, starting Monday, 3rd February. This initiative offers a great opportunity to make new friends with free refreshments.
Inspire, which delivers culture, learning, and libraries on behalf of the County Council, will celebrate the refurbishment with a fun day and official opening event for special guests and library users soon.
Peter Gaw, Chief Executive of Inspire, said:
“We are delighted to have had funding from Arts Council England and Nottinghamshire County Council to improve the library and make it a great space for the Hucknall community to read, learn, and enjoy culture. With improved spaces and facilities, we look forward to building on its popularity, attracting users new and old with a range of cultural, heritage, and adult learning programmes.”
Councillor Scott Carlton, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council, said:
“I am thrilled with the refurbishment of Hucknall Library. Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, and it is essential that they evolve with the times. This project shows our continued commitment to providing vibrant, modern facilities that inspire learning, creativity, and a strong sense of community. I’m also pleased to say that we have increased the opening hours, following residents’ feedback, so even more people will be able to enjoy the benefits of their local library.”
During the closure, library users have made use of a mobile library service in Hucknall Marketplace. The last visit will take place on Friday, 24th January, from 2pm to 4pm.
