New Deeside library hub offically opens

Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates officially opened the new library hub at Deeside Leisure Centre on Friday, March 4th.

Flintshire County Council received £92,000 from the Welsh Government’s Community Learning and Libraries Programme to create a new library in Deeside Leisure Centre.

The new library has self-service technology, allowing it to remain open all the hours the leisure centre opens. Library users also have the advantage of using the café and foyer space for reading, refreshments and access to Wi-Fi.

Speaking at the official opening, the Deputy Minister said:

“Our commitment and investment in libraries is helping them to stay relevant for people’s lives today. Deeside is an excellent example of how co-locating can appeal to new audiences and benefit current users through new facilities and longer opening hours.

“Libraries are important community assets. They are open to everyone and offer a range of social and learning opportunities. Libraries are a different place to what they were some years ago, and users new and old would be surprised at the modern services they now provide. I am pleased our support is allowing this transformation to continue, so they remain a valued part of our community.”

The new Deeside library has a brand new stock of 5000 books and 4 public use computers and 20 tablets for use in the library.

Cllr Aaron Shotton, Leader of Flintshire Council, said:

“The new hub is part of a £250,000 investment in Deeside Leisure Centre, with major funding contributions coming from Welsh Government.

“Deeside Leisure Centre is a major attraction in Flintshire and the new library along with the major improvements to the entrance and reception area will ensure it is an attractive place to visit and remains a local landmark.”