Croydon Council was successful in a bid for government funding to refurbish the first floor of the Central Library, creating an accessible space for browsing books, studying, and accessing free internet.
There is a new digital zone, where residents can use computers and free WiFi in a fit-for-purpose space, and access digital inclusion support and workshops from organisations such as ClearCommunityWeb.
Library visitors will also be able to discover more about Croydon’s history by accessing the museum and archive collections online at kiosks; and can see a new exhibition featuring Croydon’s heritage through digital media. There will also be a new activity space and meeting room which will host library events and can be hired out by community groups.
The Council is working with ClearCommunityWeb, funded by Arts Council England as our digital inclusion partner, to provide digital skills and awareness support for adults in the space. The library service hopes to reach the borough’s most vulnerable residents who may struggle to access online services and resources.
The new space opened last week at Central Library in Katharine Street and a launch event will be held on Thursday 23 October, from 2-5pm, as part of Get Online Week.
Visitors will be able to see the new space and join workshops, including a Digital Horizons event by ClearCommunityWeb, who will be offering support on how to stay safe online, explore useful apps and be more confident with the internet. Meanwhile, CALAT Croydon (Croydon Adult Learning and Training) will provide taster workshops and introductions to AI (artificial intelligence), WhatsApp photos and more.
The digital project was made possible through a grant award from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Libraries Improvement Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England.
Croydon residents can find out more about Croydon Libraries’ free digital offer of 60,000+ ebooks and eaudiobooks, hundreds of magazines and thousands of newspapers in 130 languages – all available online with a library membership card. Library members also get free access to Theory Test Pro and Go Citizen. Visit Croydon Libraries website.
“Everyone in Croydon should have easy access to computers and digital services when they need it. That is why we are investing in our Central Library and are working with our partners to help people get online.
“We would like to thank our residents for their patience during the refurbishment and apologise for any inconvenience caused. I look forward to seeing the space being used by our residents and the programme of activities provided during Get Online Week and beyond.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
