Midsomer Norton Library’s new space in the Hollies’ One Stop Shop has been officially opened this week. Hailed as ‘an exciting new chapter’ by B&NES Council, it is unconfirmed what will happen to the old building and little

consolation to areas such as Paulton, who are consulting with residents on whether or not their precept should be raised to keep the village library open.

The Library and One Stop Shop are reopening as a combined service in Midsomer Norton, with a £350,000 investment by the Council.

However, the bigger picture is a cost-saving move by the local authority, which is only keeping Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton libraries under its control. The rest are ear-marked as ‘Community Libraries’ which will be run by local Town and Parish volunteers or groups – if enough people can be found to manage them.

B&NES says the Midsomer Norton Library space has been redesigned to give people the chance to get information, advice and services all under one roof in an integrated, modern and more flexible, useable space for the whole community.

The new-look library and information service has been completely redesigned, with a new children’s area including comfy soft seating and fun educational features. There is free WiFi throughout, improved internet technology, improved access to printing, including wireless technology, as well as more comfortable seating and a quiet area to study.

In addition it has a wider selection of books and shelving for easier access in a friendly and welcoming space. Access to the vast catalogue of more than three million items is simple using the new touch screen technology.

Councillor Karen Warrington (Conservative, Clutton), cabinet member for Transformation and Customer Services, said: “Now Midsomer Norton Library and Information Service is a really bright and well-resourced community space which everyone can benefit from. We listened to what people asked for and have invested in the building and the services giving it a sustainable long-term future.

“This is all about creating stronger communities and helping everyone achieve their full potential through learning, improving access to information whether that’s for health or employment and to provide somewhere for cultural and creative enrichment.

"The whole space is just great and is still of course a place to find all kinds of books and enjoy reading. The children’s area is really welcoming and I am delighted that people with autism have been taken into account and that there are plans to hold autism only children’s events as part of a future programme of community activities.”

Signage has been designed to be simple and clear and we have added a number of features including an autism-friendly map to make the space more welcoming to people with autism.

Opening hours have been increased and simplified to avoid confusion. Now opening daily from 09.30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Fridays when it closes at 4.30 p.m. and Saturday closing at 1 p.m.

The integration of Midsomer Norton Library and One Stop Shop to form the new library and information service is part of the council’s Modern Libraries Programme, putting people first.

It follows the combined Keynhsam Library and One Stop Shop which has been a huge success with a significantly increased footfall and rise in popularity, following similar improvements several years ago.