A North East artist is taking the ‘coolest’ ideas from Gateshead Central Library users this week to be used on a new glass installation.
Visitors to Gateshead Central Library this week will be asked to put their give their thoughts on libraries, not on paper, but on the front of a fridge using magnetic letters.
The novel way of capturing ideas is part of Gateshead Council’s £2.5m project to improve Gateshead Central Library with an all new children’s library, a new café, gallery and adult learning and community spaces created.
The magnetising plan is the work of poet Ira Lightman. The coolest idea of all selected by Ira will win an iPod. The words and phrases taken from the fridge will be used in the design of glass walls, doors and screens in the library.
Ira and the fridge will be at Gateshead Central Library on afternoons from Wednesday 10 June until Friday 19 June.
Gateshead Council cabinet member for culture Cllr Linda Green said: “We’re always keen to get peoples views on services but I’m fairly confident that this is the first time we’ve done so on the front of a fridge!”
Work by Gateshead Council has been underway since January to transform the historic frontage of the library and create an accessible new entrance. The library will remain open throughout the work, due to be completed in 2010
Gateshead Central Library was chosen as just one of four libraries in the North East to receive a nearly £2m share of £80m from the Big Lottery Fund. The grants will help to create community spaces that offer a range of activities to appeal to a wide section of local people. Gateshead Council has also provided match funding for the project.
Residents and community groups can find out more about the work taking place at Gateshead Central Library by contacting Jenifer Maughan on 0191 433 8400 or jenifermaughan@gateshead.gov.uk