Stunning new video shows hard work behind Huddersfield Library Hub
A new video has captured the work that went into creating Huddersfield’s new library hub and the inspiration behind it.
The library hub opened to the public on September 21, unveiling a modern community space designed to inspire learning, creativity and collaboration for residents and visitors alike.
Features included flexible workstations, library shelving, soft seating, breakout areas and collaborative learning spaces throughout the building.
Publicly owned buying organisation, the Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO) provided the furniture procurement, design and installation services for the new hub.
The organisation also supported the design of the enchanted forest-themes children’s area, with its appointed supplier, FG Library, taking the lead.
The process is captured in a newly released video which shows the hard work that went on behind the scenes to make the new space a reality.
Sam Watling, YPO’s Project Manager for the library hub, said: “The children’s library hub was designed with an enchanted forest theme to inspire discovery and creativity.
“Using our supplier FG Library, the large back wall mimics a forest tree line, with reading nooks featuring starlight and soothing mood lighting.
"Toadstool seats and magical light globes have also been placed around the library hub, creating spaces where children can play, listen to stories and enjoy reading for years to come.”
The YPO says that furniture and materials were sourced within a 50-mile radius. Bespoke items were manufactured in Ossett, and all signage was supplied by a local company in Huddersfield.
Sustainable textile furnishings were supplied by local manufacturer Camira, whose roots are closely linked to Huddersfield’s textile heritage. Handcrafted furniture was designed, produced and installed by FG Library.
Simon Hill, YPO’s managing director, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to support the delivery of Huddersfield’s new Library Hub through our compliant procurement frameworks, furniture solutions and trusted supplier partnerships.
“This is a significant investment in the future of Huddersfield, and we are proud to have worked alongside Kirklees Council to create a welcoming, flexible and inspiring space for the community.
"By incorporating locally sourced materials and suppliers wherever possible, the project also reflects the rich heritage of the area while supporting economic growth across the region.”
Stephanie Shaw, libraries service manager at Kirklees Council, added: “A huge amount of thought has gone into creating a library hub that feels welcoming, flexible and distinctive, somewhere that inspires and involves our communities while providing the kind of spaces and facilities people expect from a modern library.
“YPO and its suppliers have helped us turn that ambition into the finished spaces people can now enjoy, from flexible areas for reading, working, creating and spending time together to the enchanted forest, which has already become a real feature of the children’s library and created much excitement amongst our younger visitors.
“It was also important that the building reflected Huddersfield and its heritage, so we’re particularly pleased to see local suppliers, materials and the area’s textile connections represented throughout. It’s been fantastic to see people coming through the doors and making the space their own since it opened.”
The library hub forms a central part of the council’s wider vision to transform Huddersfield town centre through Our Cultural Heart.
"The regeneration programme is taking shape in the Piazza area of town, with Queensgate Square – the new public space – also completed. The food hall will follow next and is due to open in spring/summer next year.