Giffnock Library has been chosen for a £450,000 redevelopment project.

The building will have to close for a period of six months while the extensive works are carried out, but the East Renfrewshire Council has said temporary measures will be put in place for library users.

The plans for the library will see it transformed into a fresh, modern facility and community venue in the town.

It will feature:

• an exciting programme of events and activities for all ages



• improved IT facilities and learning opportunities



• a colourful children's area for reading, learning and fun



• a new programme of activities for teenagers



• a new heritage centre



• a new frontage to improve access to the building



• bookable meeting rooms for community groups and organisations
  
  wifi throughout



• information on the local community

Four drop-in sessions are being arranged at Giffnock Library ahead of the closure to allow residents to voice their opinions on the look of the new centre, the services it will offer, as well as the programme of activities and events.

The first takes place on Friday 5 July from 10am to 12noon. This will be followed by a session on Friday 12 July from 1pm to 4pm, Wednesday 17 July from 5pm to 7pm and Wednesday 24 July from 5pm to 7pm.

The library will close at 5pm on Saturday 3 August, with the new arrangements coming into effect from 12.30pm on Monday 5 August.

These include a temporary library at East Renfrewshire Council HQ at Eastwood Park open Monday to Friday and a Saturday library service at Eastwood Park Theatre.

There will also be a free, twice-weekly, bus service between Giffnock and Clarkston Library, a home lending service delivered by volunteers to customers adversely affected by the library closure. There will also be a drop-box facility at Whole Foods Market in Giffnock to return items borrowed.

Convener for Community Services and Community Safety, Councillor Mary Montague, said: "This is a tremendous investment in Giffnock Library by the council.

"This is so much more than a refurbishment - it's a complete service redesign, and it will be a fantastic asset for the local community.

"Our libraries staff have worked very hard to put an excellent temporary service in place, which will mean library users won't lose out on the service while these extensive works are being carried out.

"I very much hope people will come along to our drop-in sessions to find out more and give us their views on the plans - it's a very exciting development for Giffnock."

(JP/CD)