New chapter for restored library

AN ARMY of bookworms formed a line to pass 1,400 boxes containing 40,000 books into Ramsgate’s new library as the countdown to its re-opening began on Wednesday.

Staff began the daunting task of unpacking box upon box of shiny new books each with a highly addictive new print smell at the state-of-the-art Ramsgate library.

The building, which will open its doors on Monday, February 2, is breathtaking with its grand facade still intact following the devastating fire in 2004 which destroyed most of the building and its entire stock.

The library’ interior is divided into two floors. The first floor, with a beautiful stained glass window designed by artist John Corley with the help of 12 schoolchildren, has a community area with colourful stylish seating, two community meeting rooms, a local history department and non-fiction reference titles.

The open-plan ground floor is divided into various zones including a teenage zone with seats they can plug their iPods into, an IT area with 12 computers and free internet access and a soft seating area next to the children’s books where parents can relax with a cup of coffee and keep an eye on their kids.

The Isle of Thanet Gazette arranged for six Clarendon House girls, who each designed a panel in the stained glass window, to see their work for the first time.

Rachel Guild, 16, from Clarendon House, said: "I designed the second panel with the large seagull.

"We were told to look at inspiration in Ramsgate. It’s great news to have a brand new library next door to my school."

Amber Ryan, 16, came up with a clever design. She said: "Wow, the window is really cool.

"I came up with the design of a fish jumping out of a book as it’s a great link with the library."

Bethany Crouch, 17, said: "My friend was reading a book on Government Acre clifftop, so I used this image for my design. I find it strange to see it on glass from paper."

The youngest panel designer, Dixie Britton, 12, also from Clarendon House, was at Chiltern Primary School when her design was selected.

She said: "I didn’t really know it was a competition. I just drew it.

"I put an angel book in my drawing."

Library facts:

New library open February 2.

Ribbon cutting by KCC Lead Member for Communities Elizabeth Tweed.

Official opening celebration on February 20, special guests to be announced.

200,000 books due to be loaded out per year.

Open Monday to Fridayi 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm. Closed Sunday.