Music library aims to be 'cultural cornerstone'

The centre includes walk-in recording studios, pianos and podcasting facilities

An historic music library is set to reopen this week after undergoing a major redevelopment.

The refurbished venue at Leeds Central Library boasts walk-in recording studios, pianos and podcasting facilities.

First opened in 1950, the city's music library is the largest in the North of England.

Senior librarian Jamie Hutchison said: "At its heart, the new music library is about giving people from all communities in Leeds a space to feel welcome, where they can come together, be creative and express themselves.

"Our aim is to become that cultural cornerstone of the city."

Leeds Music Library first opened in 1950

Leeds City Council said the new library would build on the work of the city's first dedicated music librarian Alice Eleanor Burbridge, who worked to ensure music was "accessible to all and would play a role in breaking down social barriers".

Mr Hutchinson said: "It's also humbling to know that we're making the vision Eleanor Burbridge had all those years ago a reality and hopefully inspiring the next generation of Leeds musicians and creatives to achieve their own ambitions."

The redevelopment project is part of wider refurbishment of the Central Library which will also see improvements made to the lending and children's libraries.

The new music library will also offer a programme of free and paid events while aspiring music entrepreneurs will be able to access support from BIPC Leeds.

The space and equipment will also be available for commercial hire for events, generating important income for the service.

Funding for the project has come through a generous £267,000 grant from Arts Council England, with additional funding from the Leeds City Council.

Mary Harland, the council's executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: "The new facilities will enhance and improve both aspects of the library, providing a range of exciting, modern facilities for the city's aspiring creatives and communities to use whilst also paying tribute to the original vision for Leeds's unique and historic music library."

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