Portobello library is all set to reopen

Café and teen area included in designs

Portobello Library is opening its doors again in December after an extensive refurbishment.

With a new, open and welcoming look, the facilities are ready to meet the demands of the 21st century.

After a consultation with library customers in September, a design was developed by thedesignconcept Ltd.

The design also took into account suggestions made by children and young people when they were surveyed in March 2009 and from the Library’s idea box.

The most popular suggestions were a café, brighter decorations, a cool teenage area, more seating and a safer area for babies, toddlers and carers. All of these ideas have been included in the new design.

The library closed its doors on 11 October at the end of the Portobello Book Festival and staff moved into the Mobile Library, which was parked just outside.

During the closure, book services have been operating from the Mobile Library.

Many regular events such as Rhymetimes, Storytimes and the Book Group have been continuing – held in either the Town Hall, on the Childrens’ Mobile Bookbus (which has been parked near the Town Hall on Friday afternoons between 2pm and 3pm), or in the Community Centre. 

The regular Library Link Service to normally housebound customers has also been maintained. Craigmillar and Piershill Libraries have been hosting these sessions during the closure.   

“We’re really excited about our newly refurbished library,” said Joyce Campbell, team leader at Portobello Library.

“We hope that locals will be able to enjoy all the new facilities on offer.”