Refurbished library officially reopens

A library in Oxfordshire has officially reopened, following extensive refurbishment.

Henley library has a new heating system, lighting, double glazing, contemporary furniture, and a dedicated work and study space with charging points.

The building was closed from the 6 January for roughly 12 weeks while the modernisation work was carried out.

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Community and Corporate Services, said: "Our refurbishment makes the library more energy efficient and environmentally friendly."

The new furniture uses fabric made entirely from recycled plastics, including sea debris and landfill bound bottles.

The upgrade forms part of an ongoing project to modernise Oxfordshire's libraries, and improve accessibility, reflecting the changing needs of local communities.

The project has been made possible through a combination of central government decarbonisation funds, and community infrastructure levy (CIL), provided by South Oxfordshire District Council.

Cllr Fawcett said: "We are pleased to reopen Henley's library after extensive works.

"Our refurbishment makes the library more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, while also being a welcoming and accessible space.

"We are confident that local people will love the changes; and they now have a library that is modern, warm and better able to meet their needs."

You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.