Library Redevelopment

Surrey Libraries hold a unique place in communities providing universal access to all with the potential to reach a wider audiences through its programme of activities including reading, digital, learning, health and wellbeing and culture.

In the following text and images, the vision for the redevelopment of Weybridge Library as a cultural hub has been shown, using photos from the hugely successful relocation of Horley library in 2019 to demonstrate what a new Weybridge library could look like. The redeveloped library will be a modern, flexible space to accommodate a wide range of events and services including books, a significant events offering, meeting rooms, exhibition space, modern technology and business support.

The design will create a light and inviting environment which will be an accessible and comfortable space that provides an exceptional visitor experience. It will be a dynamic place for the whole community to visit, spend time and enjoy.

Children's Library 

The Weybridge redevelopment will cater to all ages and place great emphasis on the children’s area. Libraries support learning through resources and activities and by providing a safe learning-focused space for homework and private study. Activities such as rhymetimes and Code Clubs have been shown to contribute to young people’s reading skills, development, and confidence. The children’s area will be a bright, vibrant and creative space to encourage both play and learning and develop a lifelong love of reading. It will also contain a feature piece to create additional interest and excitement.

Events & Programming

The vision for the space is one that encompasses a varied service offering, with a particular emphasis on events which will cater to a range of audiences. This will help position Weybridge library as a cultural hub and destination on the high street. The flexibility of the space will enable wide range of cultural events to take place including exhibitions, performance space for music and art events, author events, and children’s events such as rhymetimes. There will also be the capacity for classes and workshops to be hosted in confidential meeting room space, delivered alongside community groups and other partners.

Partnership Working & Co-Design

Throughout the process of the redevelopment of the library, the library service will work closely with residents and community partners to ensure the library meets the needs of the community. The overall vision is one where residents can access a range of services in one building, so reaching out to partners which compliment the offering of the library will be essential. The library will include spaces for social interaction, cultural experiences, learning opportunities and act as an economic enabler through providing support for local communities and businesses. The space will be open to all and deliver on the needs and requirements of a wide demographic, from young to old.