Description of the contract
Pencoed Library is the only cultural space serving the growing 12,000+ population of Pencoed. Though fit for purpose in the basics, the large, two-storey building still looks very much the same as it always has, with old-fashioned décor and shelving; the static, imposing furniture and small private meeting space doesn’t offer the flexibility for community use that is possible.
Pencoed Library would benefit significantly from a refurbishment to provide a more modern and attractive service environment and by offering a new community facility that will develop our services for vulnerable people by adding a room that is a safe space for support services to meet those who need their help.
Our three main aims for this project are:
- Refurbish the library to make it an attractive, safe and energy efficient cultural space that people feel excited to visit;
- Create a work/study space offer that suits the changing needs of the population, in-line with the Government’s plan for remote working hubs, offering better work-life balance and reducing carbon emissions, adding to the health and wellbeing of the community;
- Create a flexible community room to offer local services, charities and community groups a space in the heart of the town to run support sessions and social sessions that will help to make their lives better.
In summary, the fit-out work comprises:
Replace and relocate ground floor circulation desk, retaining one accessible service point and one standing service point; must include room for 2 PC led service points, delivery handling, 2 sets of drawers, 1 cash till with work surface suitable for written work and book management
Install attractive and flexible book display options throughout the library with a focus on enhancing reader development and reading for pleasure
Install comfortable seating options throughout to encourage relaxation and reading
Create private, comfortable study/work spaces with power modules, suitable for 1-1 discussions and long stays
Replace all wall shelving in adult library with fresh, modern shelving bringing in line with new library style and design - approximately 110 linear metres, design dependant.
Replace all free-standing shelving with mobile options, allowing ease of movement for regularly changing layout – approximately 104 linear metres, design dependant.
Fit-out functional meeting room with flexible tables and comfortable, stackable chairs for up to 18 people, design dependant.
Replace old wall shelving in junior library, bringing in line with shelving replaced in 2017, to create cohesive design – approximately 28 linear metres, design dependant.
Replace central computer zone in junior area with wall units, allowing more flexible floor space for activities.
We are looking for applications that show an innovative use of the available internal public space, with modern presentation and design, taking due note of a high footfall on both floors. Ease of customer navigation and DDA compliance throughout the library is also a priority. All customer and staff areas (including circulation desk) must be fully accessible to wheelchair users. The meeting room must have an accessible option incorporated.
The refurbished and modernised Library will need to cater for a minimum of 40,000 visits per annum. Fittings, layout, and building durability will need to be capable of matching, and exceeding, this level of expected use. All furniture must be guaranteed for a minimum of 3 years against manufacturing defects.
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