Stoke-on-Trent City Council in the UK has announced the start of refurbishment works at Longton Library after a successful bid of £300,000 funding from Arts Council England's Library Improvement Fund.

The first phase of the refurbishment works begins today (September 25) and will run until early next year.

Longton Library will undergo various renovations, including the creation of a dedicated children's area, spaces for partners and groups, as well as added study and Wi-Fi areas.

The entire library will undergo a redecoration process, and modern, energy-efficient lights will be installed in the process.

The building will feature updated external signage, with an open and welcoming space to be added by removing its traditional library counter.

Starting in 2024, Stoke Library's sites will receive other significant upgrades. All six library locations will feature Wi-Fi printing capabilities, with the City Central, Longton, Stoke, and Tunstall libraries featuring self-release printing.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader and councillor Jane Ashworth said: “Following the recent relocation of Bentilee Library and the soon-to-be-opened City Central Library at Two Smithfield, we are continuing to make our libraries more visible and accessible for readers of all abilities as well as opening the doors wider for community activities in these spaces.

“The refurbishment of Longton Library will be completed in three phases across a five-month period, so we ask visitors to bear with us and to expect some temporary disruptions but we will keep everyone updated in good time, so they can access library services at our other sites, if required.”