The purpose-built hub is a key part of Phase One of Our Cultural Heart, the major regeneration programme transforming the Queensgate area into a vibrant cultural and social destination for everyone.
Construction is progressing well. The steel frame topped out in December, glazing is now complete, and the external façade is taking shape. As the building nears completion, the focus is firmly on what you’ll experience inside.
Shaped by the community
More than 1,000 local residents took part in engagement activities during the Our Cultural Heart Libraries Festival in 2025. Your feedback has directly influenced what the new hub will offer.
You told Kirklees Council you wanted:
Large and diverse book collections.
Quiet reading and study areas.
Comfortable spaces to relax.
Creative workshops and activities.
Free and affordable group spaces.
The new library hub has been designed as a welcoming space where reading, creativity, wellbeing and digital support can all sit under one roof.
An exciting programme of events
Kirklees Council have secured £86,000 from Arts Council England to support a wide-ranging programme of activity in the run-up to opening day and beyond.
You can expect:
Author talks
Creative and textile workshops
Printing sessions
Theatre groups
Yoga and wellbeing sessions
Seasonal events at Christmas, Halloween and Easter
Opening day will only be the beginning. They’ll continue to build and adapt the programme with communities.
What is the MakerSpace?
At the heart of the building will be the new MakerSpace.
This hands-on creative area is designed for beginners, hobbyists and experienced makers alike. It will include textile tools, fabrication equipment such as a CNC machine and lathe, and a wide range of creative resources.
Supported workshops and friendly introductory sessions will help people learn new skills and try something new.
Kirklees has a proud history of textiles and making things. The MakerSpace is about celebrating that heritage while giving people the tools to create their own future.
Designed for how we live and work today
Libraries are about much more than books.
The new hub will include:
More than 20 free-to-use computers
Printing and scanning facilities
Reliable free Wi-Fi throughout
Quiet study zones
Bookable meeting rooms with video screens
Whether you’re studying, job searching, freelancing, working remotely or just need a focused space away from home, the library hub will provide a free and accessible alternative to commercial co-working spaces.
Accessible and welcoming for everyone
Accessibility has been central to the design from the very beginning.
The building will include mobility-friendly layouts, quiet areas, hearing loops, sensory-aware design features and clear signage. They are also exploring closed captioning and SEND-friendly sessions, alongside activities tailored to different community groups.
The aim is simple. They want everyone in Kirklees to feel comfortable, confident and welcome here.
Protecting our shared history
The building will also house a new West Yorkshire Archive Service facility.
More than 20,000 boxes of historic records dating back to the 12th century will be safeguarded here, with improved public access so residents can explore the area’s rich heritage.
Part of something bigger
The library hub will act as a major community anchor within Our Cultural Heart.
Alongside the new food hall, public square and future museum and art gallery, it will help bring more people into the town centre and encourage them to stay longer. That supports nearby shops, cafés and services, while helping create a vibrant cultural district we can all be proud of.
Libraries are vital for our towns. They are places to learn, connect, explore new ideas and access support. This new hub builds on everything people already value about our library service, while creating a modern space that reflects how we live today.
There will be more updates as we get closer to opening day.
September isn’t far away.
