Reading Central Library, which has been a staple in the community for nearly four decades, is undergoing a major transformation. The Reading Borough Council has decided to sell the library and convert it into residential flats following a substantial grant of £19.164 million from the Levelling Up Fund (LUF).
The council plans to use the funding to establish a new library at the Civic Offices in Bridge Street. The decision to sell the Central Library site will be brought before the council’s policy committee for approval at an upcoming meeting.
The existing library building, which has hosted various events over the years, including art exhibitions and community gatherings, is set to be repurposed into an estimated 46 homes. The council envisions the new library at the Civic Offices to serve as a hub for residents, promoting literacy and offering support services to the community.
Charan Dhillon, the council’s assistant director of property and assets management, highlighted the importance of retaining the existing building and exploring options for conversion into housing. While the preference is to extend the current structure rather than demolish it, the final decision will depend on market demand and value.
As part of the redevelopment plans, three current occupants of the Central Library will need to vacate the premises. The Berkshire Family History Society will be relocating to Battle Library, while REDA and Reading Voluntary Action have until December to find new locations. Travel charity Sustrans has already moved out of the building.
The transition from a library to residential flats marks a significant change for the Central Reading Library and the surrounding community. While some may lament the loss of a beloved institution, the council aims to create a new space that will continue to benefit residents and promote literacy in the area.
The redevelopment plans for the Central Reading Library represent a shift in how public spaces are utilized and repurposed to meet the changing needs of the community. By transforming the library into residential flats, the council is not only maximizing the potential of the site but also providing new housing opportunities in the area.
Overall, the decision to convert the Central Reading Library into residential flats reflects a broader trend of adaptive reuse and urban regeneration. As communities evolve, so too must the spaces that serve them, ensuring that they remain relevant, accessible, and beneficial to all residents.