Newport Pagnell Library is to be modernised in time for its 50^th birthday later in the year.

The Council investment will include updating the lighting, replacing the library furniture, creating a new children’s library space, general decoration of the building and installing ‘Libraries Extra’ technology which will allow the extension of the libraries opening hours outside of the core staffed hours.

Cllr Zoe Nolan, Cabinet member for Children and families, said: “I am pleased that Milton Keynes Council will be modernising Newport Pagnell library as it prepares to celebrate its 50^th birthday. Unlike surrounding councils that have closed libraries, in Milton Keynes we have improved libraries, like the Bletchley library, and even opened a new one in Westcroft!”

The work will require the library to be shut for a period of time whilst the renovation work is undertaken. Library customers will be signposted to alternative library facilities during this period. The mobile library bus will also be making regular stops whilst the library is modernised. The work will be completed by December 2019.

Cllr Nolan added: “We will be using S106 money which has been allocated to the library for this work. I am committed to investing in the improvement of Milton Keynes libraries, in both the older surrounding towns, and in the newer areas of Milton Keynes.”

Cllr Zoe Nolan concluded by saying: “I will invite the residents of Newport Pagnell to the re-opening as part of the celebrations of Newport Pagnell Libraries 50th birthday taking place this year.”