They love a bit of noise at the new city library

Jun 20 2009 by Nicola Juncar, The Journal

Sara Lourenco was the centre of attention at the new City Library in Newcastle yesterday. Theres much more to come this weekend

VISITORS to the region’s newest library are being given the VIP treatment this weekend.

Newcastle’s City Library has rolled out the red carpet to celebrate its early success.

In the first week of opening, the library attracted more than 31,500 people – more than twice the number expected.

And already, more than 16,000 books, CDs and DVDs have been borrowed.

This weekend, dancers, musicians and performers are entertaining new visitors at the £24m building, and they may also spot the odd “film star”.

Red carpets have been placed at both the entrances in New Bridge Street and Princess Square and people are being welcomed in style by concierge staff dressed in full costume.

There is also an opportunity to look behind the scenes of the building, with visitors getting the chance to see samples of The Newcastle Collection which was officially launched this weekend.

People are being encouraged to dress to impress and will be able to join in a number of activities, including a salsa workshop, ballroom dancing classes and talks by artist Kathryn Hodgkinson, who will give the background to “Four Questions” – the artwork on the library’s windows.

There is also plenty going on to keep younger VIPs entertained, including a Make Your Own Tyne God mask workshop.

Coun Pauline Allen, Newcastle City Council’s executive member for culture, leisure and customer services, said: “We have been delighted by the number of visitors who have already come to use the new City Library and also the amount of new members we have welcomed to the service.

“This VIP weekend is a perfect opportunity to thank the people of Newcastle for their continued support.”

On the library’s early success, Tony Durcan, Head of Culture, Libraries and Lifelong Learning, said: “We have been delighted by the public response to the new library and I think it is something the whole city can be proud of and be inspired by.

“Their support of the City Library shows how importantly we value the library service across Newcastle.

“This new building has been deigned in consultation with the community and has move with the times giving people instant access to goods and services, 24 hours a day.

“The facilities we now have in Newcastle’s new City Library – the 24-hour vending machine, universal Wi-Fi and self-service technology - means we have never been more ready to meet those expectations.”

Built on the site of the former City Library, the new facility is a far cry from the 1960s building it replaces.

The Ryder designed landmark includes a 185-seat performance space, meeting rooms and creche.

It has a 24-hour library vending machine which opens on to the street and holds up to 400 books, CDs and DVDs and items can also be returned after closing time.