Exeter children’s library is getting a big makeover

Exeter children’s library is getting an impressive upgrade, including a brand-new sensory area, floating mezzanine and activities for older children, thanks to funding from the Clore Duffield Foundation

The radical makeover is being undertaken by Libraries Unlimited, the charity we commission to operate the libraries in Devon. It will transform the existing children’s library into a series of vibrant, inspiring, flexible and accessible learning and activity spaces which will welcome and support children and families. The design extends beyond reading activities to provide a multi-faceted experience that aligns with the interests of diverse children and their families, using adaptive and multi-functional spaces, all within the existing library space.  

A key feature is a new sensory space which will support children with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders. The sensory zone, created in collaboration with specialists Aurora – part of the Osborne Technologies group, will be situated in its own dedicated space on the mezzanine to provide a comfortable, accessible and safe space for all. The installation of a lift will enable children with disabilities to access the sensory room on the lower floor as well as providing access to the newly dedicated mezzanine area. 

It is being designed by young people, for young people. Libraries Unlimited consulted with children through questionnaires both at school and in the library and conducted sessions in secondary schools. The thoughts, ideas and imagination of children in the area have been taken on board to produce something unique for the city.   

With architect support from SW Norse, and Structural Engineering from StructureHauus, Project Management support from IIE and apprenticeship support from Progressive, the whole design process has used apprentices wherever possible to support the development. Funding has come from the Clore Duffield Foundation which supports UK charities working in the arts, education, social welfare and health. 

Rachel Payne, Business Development and Fundraising Manager at Libraries Unlimited said:

“Over the last two years Libraries Unlimited has been working with forward-thinking partners to bring business skills and create high-impact partnerships that maximise social value with creativity, imagination and innovation which bring about positive change. Without the support of the partners and the input from young people this project would never have come to life. Funding from Clore Duffield has enabled us to bring this vision to life. 

“We are incredibly proud of this project and very grateful to our partners and to funding from the Clore Duffield Foundation which has enabled us to bring this vision to life. The new children’s library will provide dedicated facilities for children with disabilities and a lift to a new set of spaces and free programme of learning and literacy activities which will engage, stimulate and welcome these young people into our popular city centre library. This project will create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all families, regardless of their accessibility needs – giving children with disabilities, the best start in life.”

Exeter library, the largest of the 50 libraries we commission, is a vital community hub, welcoming half a million visitors annually. It currently hosts over 750 events annually, attended by more than 26,600 individuals, including 11,500 children. Additionally, 6,100 child members borrow approximately 93,900 books annually. The children’s library plays a key role in encouraging literacy, learning, and social engagement. Plus free events like storytimes, homework clubs, coding clubs and other literacy programs help children from low-income families access learning opportunities outside of school. The aim of the new children’s library is to reach even more children across the city.  

Exeter children’s library has been relocated in a pop-up in Princesshayes since January due to urgent roof work that needed completing. The pop-up will continue so that work can start immediately on the new children’s library with minimal disruption. Work should be completed in July ready for the summer holidays.  

Libraries Unlimited is looking for further funding to elevate the project even further. Any businesses interested can email rachel.payne@librariesunlimited.org.uk