Pontypool library re-opens after £300,000 revamp (From Free Press Series)

Pontypool library re-opens after £300,000 revamp

2:10pm Thursday 28th July 2011 in News By Katey Pigden

PONTYPOOL library re-opened to the public last week for the first time since its £300,000 makeover.

A special fun day to celebrate the launch was held on July 23 which included story telling and live music.

Visitors will also had the chance to get their portrait drawn by caricaturist Picasso Griffiths.

The work carried out at the library was made possible after a £300,000 Community Learning Libraries Development Fund grant from the Welsh Assembly.

The new look library provides a more comfortable and contemporary environment for its customers.

The ground floor has benefited from a more open layout and the basement has now been brought into public use as a computer suite and community meeting room.

The library has been made fully accessible to all customers, having been fitted with a lift which goes to the basement level.

Councillor Lewis Jones, deputy leader of Torfaen council said: "I am delighted to be able to announce the opening of the refurbished Pontypool library.

"Some fantastic work has gone on during its closure and I am confident the new library will be a facility the community can be proud of.

"Our staff have worked very hard to maintain a temporary library service while the refurbishment work was carried out and I would like to thank all library customers for their support during this time."

Dennis Tippins from Pontypool has been visiting the library for years and taking photos marking how it has changed over time.

He attended the opening day on July 21 and described the refurbishment and new facilities as marvellous.

For more information call 01495 766160 or email Pontypool.library@torfaen.gov.uk.