The revamp was shaped by the views of more than 800 library users, who completed a questionnaire asking what new facilities they wanted to see in their local library.
The refurbished Morningside Library will provide modern interior design and shelving, soft seating, a cafe area, study space, community rooms, computer learning centre, improved internal lighting, the long-awaited customer toilets and new and improved areas for children and teenagers. The building will also be accessible on two levels, for the first time, creating much more space to be used by the community.
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Following a closely-contested tendering process, T & A Kernoghan Holdings Ltd was appointed as the contractor for the project.
While the work is being carried out, a mobile library service will be provided opposite Morningside Library in Falcon Road West and customers will also be directed towards nearby local libraries at Newington and Oxgangs, as well as the Central Library on George IV Bridge. Details of opening hours for these alternative libraries are available at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/libraries.
Councillor Deidre Brock, Culture and Leisure Convenor, said: "Morningside Library is in real need of a refurbishment to bring it up to 21st century standards. The revamp was shaped by the views of Morningside Library users, who responded to a survey to find out what facilities they wanted to see in their local library. More than 800 people expressed their views, with seating, more IT facilities and a cafe area topping the wishlist. Work will get under way shortly and I know libraries staff are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to the transformed Morningside Library when it reopens its doors."
(GK/KMcA)
