Staff Writer
Durrington Library has officially opened the doors at its new home and is already being warmly embraced by staff, volunteers and residents alike.
Wiltshire Council has successfully worked with Durrington Town Council to relocate the library to the Robinson Room at Durrington Village Hall.
The previous location was a well-used portacabin, but it had reached the end of its structural life, so it was the right time to look for a new home to preserve the future of the library and the essential services it provides to local residents of all ages.
A special event was held on 28 March that saw representatives of Wiltshire Council, Durrington Town Council, staff and volunteers in attendance to open the library formally. Ribbon-cutting duties were performed by Library Volunteer Christine Phelps, which was met by an excited round of applause.
The library has brand new moveable shelving, a colourful children’s area and computer space, and a self-service kiosk. In addition, there is ample parking and good toilet facilities. The Robinson Room will continue to be used flexibly for meetings and events outside library opening hours.
The opening hours at Durrington Library are unchanged:
• Monday – 10 am to 5 pm
• Tuesday – closed
• Wednesday – 10 am to 5 pm
• Thursday – closed
• Friday – 10 am to 5 pm
• Saturday – 10 am to 1 pm
The library’s phone number remains as it was, so if people want to get in touch, they can call 01980 652672 or email libraryenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk with any queries.
Cllr Graham Wright, Chairman of Durrington Town Council, said: “I’m so proud to be part of the team that provided a long-term solution for our community, as essential services are vital to village life. I’d like to thank everyone involved, particularly the brilliant volunteers, as this wouldn’t be possible without them.”
Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Libraries, said: “An important part of our Business Plan is to support people to keep physically, socially and mentally active, and our library service is playing a central role in helping us achieve that.
“We’re so pleased to have worked in partnership with Durrington Town Council to provide a much-loved library in a more suitable location.
“Alongside our brilliant book lending offer, libraries also provide a range of important services to help support people in the local community. We’re always working hard to ensure our libraries maintain their relevance and this move will help Durrington Library thrive for years to come.
“I’d like to thank the town council, our staff and our fantastic volunteers for their hard work on this project, and we’re delighted with the customer feedback received already. Our dedicated team look forward to welcoming people through the doors.”
Andy Munns
