New 'study zones' set up at city libraries

Michelle Johnson (back left), special educational needs group leader, said the areas would be "ideal" for people who need quiet spaces

New 'study zones' have been set up in libraries across Leicester.

Leicester City Council said the dedicated study areas, which come with new desks complete with built-in charging for devices, have been installed in 16 libraries.

The areas have been designed to offer "flexible spaces to make studying easier" for people and small groups, the authority added.

New display screens have also been fitted, providing information on library activities and events.

The dedicated study areas have been installed with new desks with built-in charging for devices

Michelle Johnson, who leads a group of students with special educational needs, said they regularly use the Central Library in the city centre.

"We find that meeting up to study together really helps us, but we need a large enough space that is quiet where we can plug in our laptops and concentrate properly," she said.

"The new study zones are going to be ideal for us."

'Benefit communities'

The areas have been funded with £135,000 from Arts Council England and an additional £30,000 from the council.

The authority said cash will also go towards additional "informal study furniture" and bike shelters at two libraries.

Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for leisure and culture, said: "We know that these facilities will be very welcome, because library customers have been asking for more charging points for their devices.

"Providing study facilities can be a lifeline for people who haven't got the space or equipment to study effectively elsewhere."

Peter Knott, Midlands area director at Arts Council England, added he was "delighted" to fund the project through its Libraries Improvement Fund.

"It will benefit communities right across the city, ensuring that all residents have free access to high-quality and flexible spaces to study," he said.