The Old Library Development Project
Continuing Passmore Edwards legacy of community access, use and enjoyment
intoBodmin was formed in 2017 in response to the closing of the Public Rooms and the sale of the public library building, which threatened to leave a void in the town for community access to cultural events, activities and public gatherings. We couldn't let that happen and took on the lease from Cornwall Council! Since then the organisation has been organically grown and shaped to the communities it is here to support.
On the journey we started to look at securing the future of The Old Library as a public space and to build a cultural, community hub in the heart of the town that can significantly benefit the local community and play a part in the revitalisation of Bodmin!
As a community interest company, intoBodmin is able to draw in funding to the town bringing a seasonal progamme of cultural experiences across Bodmin's public spaces, support community initatives and groups to form, provide a platform for artist's to evolve and show work, provide jobs and volunteer opportunities in the arts.
Why does this project need to happen now?
Major limitations such as poor energy efficiency, high energy bills and high rent threaten the long-term security of The Old Library as a community asset, and intoBodmin’s ability to operate sustainably from it.
The grade II listed building is in a poor state of repair after years of neglect. Problems such as damaged pointing and windows have resulted in water ingress which is causing ongoing damage to the building. Inadequate insulation and outdated heating and lighting systems mean The Old Library has a large carbon footprint.
As an imposing 19th century building, there is poor access, low natural light and inadequate signage. High windows mean there’s no visible ‘shop window’ from street level which makes the building appear closed-off and uninviting. Poor use of space on the first floor limits the number of workspace hirers, and facilities are off-putting e.g. toilets are outdated and there is no kitchenette for preparing food and drink.
Rental costs have increased significantly over the last 3 years to an unsustainable level, and intoBodmin now has the opportunity to gain ownership of the building and improve the fabric and facilities available.
So, what's happening then?
We've raised over £600,000 of funding and completed our purchase of The Old Library building in May 2023.
The Old Library is currently closed for the following refurbishment;
- Essential repairs are being carried out to the stonework, pointing and rotting windows and some of the original heritage features will be restored making it a beautiful space for the community to be in.
- Improvements are being made to the buildings energy efficiency with the introduction of secondary glazing and loft insulation to reduce passive heat loss and a complete rewire with energy efficient heating and lighting systems.
- Accessibility and facilities are being improved including better signage inside and out, making the building more visible and easier to navigate, improving the prominence of step-free rear entrance.
We'll reopen in early 2024!
This project is supported by the Architectural Heritage Fund.
It is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Cornwall Council has been chosen by Government as a Lead Authority for the fund and is responsible for monitoring the progress of projects funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperityfund-prospectus
Build a Better Bodmin
intoBodmin is a cultural advocacy organisation. We actively promote Bodmin as an attractive, engaging, inspirational and progressive town. A place where communities are strong and businesses are innovative.
CURRENT FUNDERS AND PARTNERS
