Library and Rep theatre to join forces

THE Library of Birmingham and neighbouring Rep theatre are to join forces to host conferences and hospitality events.

A report outlining plans for the library and REP to develop a commercial partnership is set to be approved by the council cabinet next week.

The arrangement, due to start in October, would see two of the city’s leading cultural assets working together to promote “creative conference opportunities”.

The venues neighbour each other in Birmingham’s Centenary Square and share an atrium.

It is hoped the scheme will generate extra income, enabling the library and REP to protect services.

The council hopes the cuts-hit library will put itself on a stronger financial footing by accessing the Rep’s expertise in this area.

Council deputy leader Cllr Ian Ward said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for the Library of Birmingham and Birmingham Repertory Theatre to work together creatively to provide a truly unique facility.

“This partnership will enable us to protect and invest in services within the library and further strengthens our relationship with our colleagues at The Rep.”

An independent report identified significant opportunities for both venues to generate income by operating joint management arrangements.