Library building revealed as finalist in awards

One of Strathblane’s most impressive recent building projects has been revealed as a finalist in the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Awards, Scotland 2024.

The Thomas Graham Community Library, shortlisted in the Community Benefit Project category, will be judged by an expert judging panel.

The new library is a striking modern building with advanced net zero carbon energy system. The project is a partnership between Strathblane Community Development Trust (SCDT) and Stirling Council and the first community-council partnership to deliver library services in Scotland.

The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. They recognise outstanding achievement, teamwork and companies. The entries are shortlisted across five categories – Residential Development, Community Benefit, Heritage, Public Sector, Refurbishment-revitalisation.

Chair of the Scotland RICS Awards judging panel, Colin Smith, said:“it is inspiring to see such inspirational projects in Scotland shortlisted for these awards. It is a true testament to the dedication of surveying professionals despite challenging times in recent years. I wish all of the projects the best of luck.”

The library opened last year, the first community-owned library to be built in Scotland in generations and part of a £1 million hub facility that also includes meeting and social facilities.

It was largely financed by crowdfunding. A quarter of households in the village – almost 300 families – chose to invest, with the bulk of funding coming from local businessman Angus Graham. He sadly died just months after the official opening of the library, which is named after his great great uncle Thomas, a renowned 19th century professor of chemistry.

The building is owned and operated by Strathblane Community Development Trust’s subsidiary, Thomas Graham Library Ltd. (TGLL). The library is leased and operated by Stirling Council in a unique partnership with TGLL.

Scottish architects, Thomas Robinson Architects designed the state-of-the-art building, developing the space to accommodate an expanded collection of books, a dedicated children’s area, accessible IT desks and meeting rooms.

At the time of the opening, a spokesperson said:“the building`s energy performance classification is `Carbon Neutral’which was achieved by a combination of the building`s very low energy use and on site electricity generation from solar panels and battery storage.

“The building has a glue laminated timber frame which enabled a distinctive form to be created and a welcoming open covered design. Angus Graham the principal funder and the client body members were clear that they wanted an exciting and interesting building.

“We hope the qualities of the building will help to encourage the use and success of the community library.”