Museum and library set to reopen after revamp

A library and museum is set to reopen after a revamp created a "vibrant, modern and flexible space", said project leaders.

The amenities in the Grade II-listed Nicholson Institute in Leek, Staffordshire, were modernised as part of a £4m restoration which has also brought the building's lower ground floor back into use.

Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County deputy leader, added the library included a quality book stock, comfortable study space and "inspiring children's library".

The building's art gallery, which is set to open next month, has also been updated and a mural by Robert Timmis restored.

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council said it led the project using government funding as part of the wider generation of Leek town centre.

"These spaces have been re-imagined to improve the experience for visitors and library users and they've been given a fresh, contemporary look which respects the heritage of the building," said Matt Swindlehurst, cabinet member for leisure and tourism.

"We were pleased to have funded the improvements which have helped create a welcoming, vibrant, modern and flexible space that also complements the proud and rich heritage of the Nicholson building," said Coles, who is also the county's cabinet member for communities and culture.

"The library is now ideally placed and fully equipped to meet local residents' needs."

The district council will run the museum and gallery and their events programmes with volunteers from the Friends of the Nicholson Institute.

The authority worked with the county council who the district council said hold the Nicholson Institute in trust and contributed to the cost of the library refurbishment.

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