DROYLSDEN’S new library was formally opened by the Civic Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Janet Cooper last Friday
Situated in Guardsman Tony Downes House, only a stone’s throw away from its previous site, it occupies a bright and airy space with large windows letting in lots of natural light.
It has a fully accessible lay-out with everything on ground-floor level, accessible public toilets, up-to-date PCs and printers, free wi-fi, a community room, a children’s area big enough to accommodate class visits, and space for meetings, work and study.
The opening ceremony was the key part of an event that was not only busy, fully demonstrating the scope of the facilities on offer, but a poignant one too.
One of the community rooms has been dedicated to the late Cllr Kieran Quinn, a former leader of Tameside Council and Droylsden ward member, whose idea it was to update the town’s library services by moving them from the ageing pre-war building they previously occupied to a modern home.
As the Mayor cut the ribbon to declare the new Droylsden Library officially open, she was joined by Cllr Quinn’s widow, Cllr Susan Quinn; the executive leader of Tameside Council, Cllr Brenda Warrington; Cllr Leanne Feeley, executive member for lifelong learning, and members of the family of Guardsman Tony Downes after whom the building is named.
Cllr Feeley said: “I was honoured to host the event which allowed us to pay tribute to Kieran, a visionary man who recognised the need to give Droylsden Library a modern home, and also to Tony, a Droylsden lad who gave his life in the service of his country.
“However, it was also a time for looking forward. Droylsden now has a library fit for the 21st century incorporating many of the recommendations that were made to us by residents during a consultation held earlier this year.
“I’m delighted to say that the comments we’ve received so far have been very complimentary. People, and especially mothers with young children, seem to really love the place with its up-to-date IT equipment and accessible lay-out.”
Guests, who were given a tour of the new site, were also able to see a Story Makers session for pre-school children led by Simon the Storyteller, and a meet-the-author event featuring thriller writer Amanda Brooke whose first novel “Yesterday’s Sun” was a Richard and Judy Book Club pick.
Droylsden Library, which is now at Guardsman Tony Downes House, Manchester Road, Droylsden, M43 6EP, is open 9am to 1pm (Monday and Thursday), 1 to 5pm (Friday) and 10am to 3pm (Saturday). Call 0161 342 5700.
