Corwen Library officially reopens with new facilities and extended access

Corwen Library marked an exciting new chapter for the much-loved community facility when it celebrated its official reopening.

Councillor Emrys Wynne (Lead Member) and Councillor Arwel Roberts (Chairman) officially opening the library

The refurbishment has been made possible thanks to £83,469 from the Welsh Government’s Cultural Transformation Capital Programme, which supports public libraries, museums and archive services to modernise facilities and transform service delivery. Funding has enabled significant improvements to the building and the installation of Open+ technology, which will be available soon.

Open+ will allow library members to access the building during unstaffed hours, increasing flexibility for residents. While face-to-face support remains at the heart of the service, visitors will also be able to use computers, access Wi-Fi, study in a warm and quiet space, print documents and borrow books using a self-service kiosk during extended hours.

A key highlight of the refurbishment is the new Children’s Library, designed as a calm, welcoming and safe space inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Corwen. The flexible layout features a mix of low and high shelving, integrated seating and movable units to allow the space to be reconfigured for events. A historic image of Market Square from around 1910, kindly provided by the North East Wales Archives, connects the space to the town’s heritage.

Weekly Bookstart rhyme times have also launched, encouraging families and young children to develop a love of reading from an early age.

Elin helping one of the young readers to find Smot!

Minister for Culture, Jack Sargeant, said:

“Libraries are the beating heart of their communities. Corwen Library's reopening is a wonderful example of what's possible when we invest in these vital spaces and we’re proud to have supported this transformation through our Cultural Transformation Capital Programme.

“It’s great to see how the funding has been used to modernise the building, introduce flexible new access through Open+ technology and create a beautiful new children's library that will inspire a love of reading for generations to come.”

Councillor Emrys Wynne being thoroughly entertained by one of the young readers!

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, said:

“This is a proud day for Corwen. Our libraries are about so much more than books – they are welcoming community spaces where people can access services, learn new skills and connect with others.

“Thanks to the Welsh Government’s support, we’ve been able to modernise the library, introduce innovative Open+ technology and create a fantastic new children’s area that will inspire young readers for years to come. As we begin the National Year of Reading, there couldn’t be a better time to encourage everyone to go all in and rediscover the joy of reading.”

The reopening also provides a fitting start to celebrations for the National Year of Reading, which will see a programme of events encouraging people to “Go All In” and make reading a regular part of their lives.

Library staff will continue to provide access to council services through the One Stop Shop, supporting residents with council tax payments, parking permits, green bin subscriptions, Blue Badge applications and more. A range of partner organisations will also deliver regular sessions from the library, including Talking Point, Working Denbighshire job clubs, baby massage sessions and Bookstart activities in partnership with Flying Start.

Residents are encouraged to visit the newly refurbished library, explore the facilities and find out more about the wide range of services and activities on offer. For details about Corwen Library and One Stop Shop, please visit our website.