Haringey (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A government minister joined Haringey Council leaders and locals for the official reopening of the much-loved community library hub on Monday.
The renovation includes a redesigned floor layout, accessible restrooms, and a new elevator. The interior of the library has been completely redecorated, and new custom lighting and furnishings have been added. There is now a specific space set out for local youth to study and learn.
The upgrades are a component of the council’s £4.9 million plan to strengthen the borough’s library services.
After multiple sites were upgraded, all nine Haringey libraries are now open at the same time for the first time in over five years.
Cllr Emily Arkell, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said:
“We are thrilled to re-open Muswell Hill Library and especially pleased to welcome Baroness Twycross to see first-hand the transformation of this valued community hub.
In spite of the financial challenges we’re facing, the fact that all nine of our libraries are now open simultaneously for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic should be a source of pride and satisfaction to everyone who – like me – loves and really values this provision.
We’ve future-proofed the facilities in this and other libraries across Haringey with the significant investment we’ve made in them, ensuring they are accessible and welcoming – and remain at the heart of the community – for many more years to come.”
Libraries Minister Baroness Twycross said:
“I’m delighted to have seen the wonderful transformation of Muswell Hill Library. Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, providing essential access to learning, books and safe spaces for all ages.
The reopening of Muswell Hill Library is great for residents across the borough and will continue to act as a cherished community hub for local people.”
Last Monday, the Haringey Libraries Service’s permanent hours of operation went into effect.
Residents of Haringey will have more assurance regarding the availability of library services throughout the borough thanks to the transition.
Two of the three primary libraries in the borough—Horsey in the west and Marcus Garvey in the east will be open seven days a week, while Wood Green, the third, will be open six days a week.
Residents will be able to visit half of Haringey’s six branch libraries Coombes Croft (six days), Muswell Hill (five days), and St Ann’s (five days) at least five days a week, while Alexandra Park, Highgate, and Stroud Green and Harringay will only be open four days a week.
In December 2024, Cabinet approved this new operating model after a lengthy consultation process that involved library patrons from all over Haringey.
It is founded on the equality principle, giving priority to our limited resources in order to maintain longer hours of operation in the libraries that serve our borough’s most underserved neighborhoods.
What new facilities were added in the refurbishment?
A new lift that will allow access to every level of the building step-free providing accessibility for persons with a disability and parents with prams.
Accessible toilets to better serve the needs of all visitors. A re-organization of the floorplan to create a more usable and flexible space within the library.
New custom lighting and furniture to modernize the interior and create a congenial atmosphere. A special space for youth to allow them to learn, study, and participate in educational activities.
These new benefits will allow the library to be more inclusive, user friendly, and a community hub for all ages going forward.