Book lovers queue to see new Newcastle City Library

Jun 8 2009 by Vicky Robson, The Journal

THOUSANDS of bookworms flocked to see their favourite characters come to life at a fairytale opening of Newcastle’s city library yesterday.

Scores of visitors queued outside the striking new glass and steel structure, all eager to take the first footsteps inside the £40.2m building.

The library, which replaced a building that was demolished in 2006, was officially reopened to reveal impressive new facilities after an extensive revamp of the building.

And dreams came true for excited youngsters who were greeted by some of their storybook favourites, including Peter Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts, Sherlock Holmes, Alice in Wonderland and The Gruffalo.

Newcastle City Council leader John Shipley welcomed thousands of people into the new building in his opening speech to mark the historic occasion.

He said: “I am delighted to be here on this major occasion in the life of our city.

“Back in September 2006 we closed the existing city library with the confidence that we were going to get a brand new building fit for the citizens of the city.

“It is a magnificent achievement and one of which we should be justly proud.”

The library has been re-built on its original site in the heart of the city centre on the junction of New Bridge Street West and John Dobson Street, and is now one of the country’s biggest public libraries.

Spanning over seven floors, it boasts a 185-seat performance space, displays of local heritage treasures, a creche, cafe, internet access and meeting rooms for community groups.