Libraries NI held a day of celebration, on Friday 11 November, to mark the official opening of the refurbished Whiterock Library.

The new-look library opened its doors earlier this year following an ambitious programme of improvements.  The refurbishment project, which was funded by DCAL, cost approximately £458,000 and took 3 months to complete.

The work included a major overhaul to the lending library and a redesign of the internal space to include a large meeting room with interactive whiteboard & kitchen facilities, a lounge area and a storytelling corner. There are also new public and disabled toilets with baby changing facilities. The finished library is calm, airy, and spacious with beautiful new furnishings.

Irene Knox, Libraries NI Chief Executive, believes the revamp has led to an increase in use:

“The refurbished library is an example of the kind of buildings and facilities Libraries NI is aiming to provide.  Issues have gradually been increasing each month – up nearly 8% in over 5 months and new borrowers increased by 25%.  I would encourage those who haven’t yet been in the refurbished library to visit and join today.”

Author Tim Brannigan, officially declared the library open, he said:

"It's a great honour to speak on behalf of such a vital resource for the people of West Belfast. As a writer and journalist I am proud to say that my library ticket is still valid and is always in my wallet. I spent many long days using NI Libraries' facilities as I spent the best part of two years writing my memoir in local libraries. They assisted my research and created a perfect environment in which to think, write and very often rewrite my manuscript. 

“I would urge people to make use of the fantastic new facilities in Whiterock; to borrow books and re-discover their love of storytelling and their love of learning and just maybe you can be inspired to tell your stories, too."

Paul Maskey MP was one of the key speakers at the launch, he added:

“I welcome the investment in the Whiterock Library, it is now a first class facility in the heart of West Belfast. Many individuals of all ages and school children come to the library on a daily basis to read and borrow books along with the other activities that the library has to offer. 

“The library itself is a very welcoming building to all and I would encourage more people to take up the benefits and join.  It has a great atmosphere and is ideal for students to learn but the key element for me is how people of all ages can mingle together. This is a great facility to have in the area and it is something that the entire people of West Belfast can be proud of.”

The official opening celebration coincided with a Health In Mind Information Roadshow, held to mark the local launch of the Libraries NI Health in Mind Project. This Project has been funded by the Big Lottery Fund’s Live and Learn programme and aims to improve the quality of life of adults affected by mental illness, through information, learning and reading.

You can contact Whiterock Library (Whiterock Road, Belfast, BT12 7FW) on telephone number: 028 9050 9236 or email: whiterock.library@librariesni.org.uk