Sensory garden to be introduced at Alexandria Library
The garden site behind Alexandria Library in Gilmour Street.
By Liz Healey
Derelict land behind Alexandria Library is to be transformed in to a sensory garden for the whole community to enjoy.
West Dunbartonshire Library Service received £6,585 in funding to transform the space into an attractive garden with comfortable seating area. The spot at the rear of the building will provide the opportunity for visitors to read and study outside and its proximity to the branch will also allow everyone enjoying the garden to use the library’s free wifi.
The development, set to be undertaken by the Leamy Foundation, will be designed to ensure the space is accessible to all users with the library’s wheelchair ramp extended and paving stones laid to level the walking surface for visitors.
The garden is expected to well used by both library members and staff and the installation of a new paved storytelling area will provide the opportunity to host author events, children’s Bookbug sessions and the Summer Reading Challenge outdoors.
Councillor Ian Dickson, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “Alexandria Library is a popular branch and I am sure the development of the land behind the library in to a beautiful open space will be welcomed by members and visitors. Given the close proximity to the building, people using the outdoor space will have full access to the library wifi, which will be a great benefit to pupils, students and jobseekers.
“We recognise that our libraries are a focal point in our communities and developments such as this provide even more reasons for people to visit and enjoy the host of activities and excellent facilities Alexandria Library has to offer.”
Councillor Iain McLaren, Vice Convener of Corporate Services, added: “The money being invested at Alexandria library will further enhance and improve our visitors’ experience at the branch. The addition of purpose built comfortable seating in the garden, will provide visitors with a place to relax in the fresh air and enjoy the latest books. It will be a space which people can visit and enjoy all year round.”
Along with the seating area a new shelter will be installed to provide cover from inclement weather.