NEW ‘study zones’ have been installed in all of Leicester’s 16 libraries, allowing people a dedicated space for studying.
The study zones, with their distinctive purple furniture, have been kitted out with facilities to make studying easier. New desks have been installed with built-in charging for laptops and devices.
The zones have been designed to provide flexible spaces that will make studying easier for individuals and small groups. They have been installed thanks to £135,000 of funding from Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund, with an additional £30,000 investment from the city council.
In addition, new information display screens have been installed at all libraries, with information on the latest library promotions, activities and events.
Assistant city mayor for leisure and culture, Cllr Vi Dempster, said: “We know that these facilities will be very welcome, because library customers have been asking for more charging points for their devices. The new study zones have these built-in to desks, providing much more capacity.
“Libraries are really important community hubs, where you can meet, learn and get online. Providing study facilities can be a lifeline for people who haven’t got the space or equipment to study effectively elsewhere. We’re delighted we’ve been able to use Arts Council funding and our own investment to make these improvements.”
Michelle Johnson is leader of the ‘Values’ group, a group of students with special educational needs who regularly use Leicester’s central library as a space to meet up and study together.
Michelle said: “We find that meeting up to study together really helps us, but we need a large enough space that is quiet where we can plug in our laptops and concentrate properly. The new study zones are going to be ideal for us.”
Peter Knott, Midlands area director at Arts Council England, said: “Libraries are considered a safe place for all members of the community to visit, study and learn, and I’m delighted that we’ve invested £135,000 in libraries in Leicester through the Libraries Improvement Fund.
“This will allow the creation of new study spaces in all 16 of the city’s libraries which will benefit communities right across the city, ensuring that all residents have free access to high-quality and flexible spaces to study.”
All of Leicester’s libraries also offer free wifi, with printing available at an additional cost. There’s also access to a wide range of books and resources, advice on jobs, benefits and careers; regular library events and access to online ebooks, emagazines and audiobooks.
It’s free to become a library member. For more information, visit www.leicester.gov.uk/libraries
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