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2 million milestone for
Central Library
LIVERPOOL'S Central Library has
welcomed its 2 millionth visitor since it re-opened nearly 3 years ago.
The library opened its doors in May 2013 following an extensive 2 year
refurbishment.
Earlier this month Jane Hedges and her 4 year old daughter Emily became
the 2 millionth visitors. As a special treat, mother and daughter have
headed back to the library on Friday, 19 February 2016, at 3pm, to receive a special
tour of the library by Assistant Mayor Councillor Wendy Simon and library
manager David Stoker, including a sneak peek in restricted areas, topping
off the visit off with tea and cake in the café.
Jane, who lives in the City centre, said:- "We love to come to Central
Library and in particular, the children's library. There is a relaxed
atmosphere in which to encourage your child's love of books and it's
reassuring to know that if they make a little noise there's no problem!
There is a good choice of books and they're in good condition. Emily has
been a member of the library since she was three and although she has lots
of her own books at home, she likes us to pick and borrow a book on every
visit."
The library originally opened in 1860, and the latest work saw a new
5 storey library fully reconstructed behind its Grade II listed façade. As
part of the redevelopment, a new entrance was created on William Brown
Street, a stunning new atrium with a domed roof to mirror the Picton Roof
was built and a specialist climate controlled repository to store the City's
archives and rare treasures.
Regarded as 1 of the top:- 'Things To Do' by Trip Advisor with a top
5 star rating, Central Library attracted more than 741,000 people last year
and has scooped a number of awards. It has also been voted as one of the top
ten libraries in the world in a national BBC poll.
Councillor Simon said:- "We're delighted to have welcomed two million
visitors to Central Library and it was an interesting couple of days for the
library team as they monitored the automatic counter to make sure we didn't
miss our special milestone visitors!
Jane and Emily are regular library users and so I'm really pleased David and
I can give them a behind the scenes tour and treat them to some cake
afterwards.
The restoration was a resounding success; for us it wasn't just about
bringing a venue back in use, it was about investing in the heritage of the
City, and the reaction we've had from members of the public has been
incredibly overwhelming. All age groups come to enjoy the building which is
also buzzing with activities and events.
Visits to Central Library are increasing year on year, bucking the national
trend, and if it continues, we look forward to celebrating the 3 millionth
visitor very soon!"
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