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How Libraries Are Helping To Regenerate Towns

Most of us have fond childhood memories of the library. It was a place where stories and characters could come to life. We could escape the real world, and disappear into our favourite books for a while. Not only that, but they were a valuable resource for information and local archives. Nowadays, much of that has been taken over by the internet, particularly the resource aspect.

 library design

Having said that, developers are still using libraries as the centrepiece of regeneration. When it comes to modernising towns and cities, the libraries are still at the heart of talks. Why? Because libraries are full of inspiration, culture, and history. It brings the community together, and revitalises the entire area. Here are just some of the ways libraries are helping to regenerate towns.

Revitalise neighbourhoods

One of the biggest reasons for decline in city centres is a lack of inspiration. It’s a tough cycle of poverty and lack of opportunity. A library acts as a centre for motivation and revitalisation. It helps inspire people and the town around it. Libraries become a hub of vibrant ideas and cultural connection. It also draws business and helps lead to new job creation.

Becomes a cultural heart

A key part of any modern city is a cultural heritage and heart. Sure, every town needs industry and business. But it also needs art, music lessons for which we recommend the best cello strings, and literature. This careful balance is often forgotten, or leaned too far towards business and economics. By shifting the balance back towards culture, it brings out a common artistic appreciation in the community.

Community spirit

A library provides a central hub for the local community. Parents and children can come together to read and learn. Modern regeneration is highly centred around socialisation and interaction. It’s a key part of building a community. This ultimately leads to better security, and higher value property prices.

Opportunity

The best thing about libraries is that they give people opportunity. The system allows everyone to access the resources within. Using library resources, people can learn new skills. They can teach themselves the tricks they need to progress. As we mentioned earlier, it also draws more business, which ultimately leads to more jobs and opportunities.

Preserving history

You’ll notice that library design is carefully separated into different aspects. While you’re probably most familiar with the fiction section, libraries are also home to local archives. Everything from immigration records to old newspapers are stored here. That makes libraries a key source of history in the local area. It gives the town a sense of civic pride in its past that is vital to community spirit.

Addressing social problems

Many neighbourhoods are plagued by anti social behaviour. It’s a broader product of poverty and lack of opportunity. But, libraries can provide a safe haven. Many now run workshops for children in the neighbourhood. Some are designed to keep them out of trouble, and focus their minds on learning. Libraries can provide an alternative in difficult communities.

The local library has always been a central and crucial part of the community. As our towns develop and adapt, they will retain their importance.

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