New ‘modern’ library hub to open in district’s heritage quarter

A NEW state-of-the-art library will officially open in Halifax tomorrow.

Calderdale’s Central Library and Archives is based next to the district’s newly opened Piece Hall in Halifax’s heritage quarter.

The modern facility will also be the base for Halifax’s Visitor Information Centre. It will be opened tomorrow by leading architectural historian, writer and TV broadcaster Dr Jonathan Foyle alongside Mayor of Calderdale Coun Ferman Ali.

Calderdale Council leader Tim Swift said the new library would provide a boost for the district.

He said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming people to this fantastic new community facility next week. The council made the decision to build a new library as part of a comprehensive regeneration programme which will bring huge benefits for local people, businesses and visitors. The state-of-the-art library facilities, alongside other remarkable developments like the transformation of the Piece Hall and Square Chapel, the reopening of Calderdale Industrial Museum and the planned improvements to transport, will provide a real boost for Calderdale. We continue to believe in the importance of libraries as places for reading, learning and culture, promoting skills and wellbeing in the heart of our communities.

“The new central library is at the heart of that commitment.

“We hope that local families will come along and celebrate with us on Saturday.”

To mark the official opening of the new library, the council is organising a series of family activities at the building from Saturday, including poetry sessions, speeches and a special tribute to Branwell Brontë.