Pupils from Christie Park Primary and children from St Mary’s Early Learning and Childcare Centre visited the branch to see the newly refurbished junior section.
The excited youngsters loved the new-look children’s area which has a bright and welcoming décor with colourful animals on the walls. The extensive range of children’s books are now showcased in mini bookcases designed to keep children occupied while their parents browse the range of fiction and non-fiction novels or use the public computers.
The popular library was the latest in West Dunbartonshire to benefit from the rebranding and branch improvement project which includes new signage, improved layouts and modern information boards throughout. Inspirational quotes and historic photography adorn the walls and shelf edges, creating a welcoming space to read and relax and for some, a trip down memory lane.
Visitors can enjoy a hot drink in the newly designed seating area with comfortable chairs, while reading the daily newspapers and catching up with the news.
New display cases have been introduced to promote the latest books in the library, with clear signage directing readers to their preferred genre.
Visitors will also find new display boards packed with information from the Council and a community board where local activities and events are advertised. New floor vinyl’s have also been fitted, brightening the place up and showcasing exactly what’s on offer within the library.
The changes have proven to be a hit with locals, according to feedback received by library staff.
Feedback from visitors to branch included “The archive black and white photos of the area are fantastic. They have provided a real talking point and brought lots of memories flooding back.”
“I really like the quotes from famous authors on the wall. They are really inspiring and they encourage you to want to read the books they are from”.
“The new signage helps to make it even clearer what each section is for. It’s even easier to locate items now.”
Councillor Ian Dickson, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “We are committed to improving our library service and this is the latest branch to be rebranded. It was great to see the reaction from the children who clearly all loved the new junior section. This is one of several investments in Alexandria Library with further works planned to convert the first floor of the branch and install a lift later this year.”
Councillor Iain McLaren, Vice Convener of Corporate Services, added: “The improvement works at Alexandria Library have been a huge success and has been well received by both the library staff and visitors. We want to all of our libraries to be hubs for the whole community, encouraging as many people as possible to visit. Along with the rebranding and the planned investment to renovate the first floor of the building, the land behind the branch is also being renovated to provide a garden for the whole community to enjoy.”
Claire Baillie, Library Co-ordinator, at Balloch and Alexandria is delighted with the changes.
Claire said: “It is great to see the completion of the works and the feedback from visitors has been very positive. The brighter signage and display boards giving information on new books makes it very easy to see the new titles in the branch. The overall look of library is very vibrant and is a lovely working environment for us all. Along with the additional works planned inside and out, we are all very excited for the future of Alexandria library.”
