On Monday 29 June, Bridgwater Library returned to its home in the historic Carnegie building following several months of repair and refurbishment work,with staff once again welcoming residents back through its doors.
The library has undergone a significant programme of improvements, including the installation of new rooflight windows, internal redecoration, repairs to areas affected by water damage and enhancements to the children’s library overlooking the park. The works have revitalised the building while preserving its important role at the heart of the community.
To mark the reopening, the Mayor of Bridgwater paid a visit to the library to welcome staff back and celebrate its return to the heart of the community.
During the visit, the Mayor was pictured alongside the library’s much-loved wooden donkey, Caxton, a feature that has delighted generations of local children and families.
Caxton was crafted by artist Hans Schwartz from an old printing press in 1970 and, despite being much travelled around the library building over the years, remains one of the library’s most recognisable and treasured features.
Reflecting on the visit, the Mayor said,
“It is fantastic to see Bridgwater Library reopening after all the work that has taken place behind the scenes. This is a building that means a great deal to so many people.
“I was particularly pleased to see the wooden donkey still here. I have wonderful memories of it as a young visitor to the library and I know many others will feel the same.
“I wanted to come along to welcome the staff back and let everyone know that the library is once again open for business and ready to be enjoyed by the whole community.”
The Mayor also thanked Somerset Council for its investment in the building, ensuring it remains fit for purpose for many years to come.
Bridgwater Library is now open as normal, offering books, digital services, events, activities and support for residents of all ages.
Residents are encouraged to visit the newly refurbished library and make use of its wide range of books, community resources, events and activities.