Walsall libraries will 'flourish' after thousands of pounds will pour into its services

Walsall Libraries will receive £170,000 in government funding through the Libraries Improvement Fund.

The funding will be distributed across Walsall’s seven community libraries: Aldridge Community Library, Bloxwich Community Library, Brownhills Community Library, Darlaston Community Library, Lichfield Street Hub (Central Library & Archives) and Streetly Community Library.

It’s expected that the funding will support a programme of refurbishment works, facility improvements and upgraded technology across the borough.

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It is one of four library services in the West Midlands to get funding through the UK Government’s £19.7 million Arts Everywhere Fund.

“Libraries are more than buildings with books in, libraries are about people, ideas and opportunity. The Libraries Improvement Fund helps libraries to flourish as safe, trusted spaces for their communities,” Liz Johnson, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England had said.

She continued: “We’re pleased to be supporting Walsall Council with £170,000 to improve the flexibility of their existing space and introduce new technology to engage with community feedback, strengthening their offer for many years to come.”

Across all seven libraries, multilingual customer satisfaction kiosks will be introduced, alongside portable devices for use at events, helping to gather feedback and inform ongoing service development.

At Darlaston Library, the first floor will be upgraded to create a more flexible space, supporting a wider range of community-led activities and enabling greater use of the building.

These improvements will support the ongoing development of library services, helping to maintain welcoming, accessible spaces while ensuring facilities are equipped to meet future demand