READING Borough Council has invested nearly half a million pounds in libraries across the borough.
Just under £500,000 was put into bringing technology up to date in Reading’s libraries after Arts Council England awarded a grant on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport.
While some of the funds have been put towards the new Central Library, most of the funding has been used to upgrade technology in branch libraries.
Improvements included upgrades to public computers, installation of laptops which can be loaned out, and on-site tablets.
They also worked to improve wi-fi at the libraries, including providing wi-fi printing both on-site and from home, as well as interactive floors and tables, and screens which are used for showing events and information.
Upgrades were made at Battle Library, Caversham Library, Palmer Park Library, Southcote Library, Tilehurst Library, and Whitley Library, as well as Central Library.
It comes as libraries in the borough continue their Reading Loves Reading programmes throughout the summer holidays, where young people can take part in a number of events aimed at keeping their reading up while school is out.
Cllr Jacopo Lanzoni, Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture, said: “Reading’s libraries play a vital role in our communities across the borough and it is important we innovate and expand services, so they continue to meet modern day demands and expectations.
“The investment in our branch libraries means that residents can access services in their area which they can use for leisure, work or study.
“They also act as a community hub for young and old to meet, take part in events or just enjoy space to sit and read.
“We recently celebrated the opening of the excellent new Central Library in the Civic Centre but we remain proud and committed to Reading libraries right across the borough.”
Information about joining Reading’s libraries and what’s going on is available via: reading.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/
