A BEST-SELLING author marked the start of a new chapter at the official launch of Stroud Library earlier today. 

Romantic novelist Katie Fforde cut the ribbon to formally open Stroud Library at its new location at the Five Valleys Shopping Centre today, Friday, July 19.

The town's library - which used to be based in Lansdown - previously opened its doors to members of the public in April.

Mark Hawthorne, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, also attended the launch, which included a guided tour of the library as well as an author networking session.

Since the opening in April, the library has proved “extremely popular”, officials say.

According to the county council, it welcomed around 750 customers on the opening day.

Meanwhile, in the period from April 2024 to June 2024 it has welcomed 35,778 visitors and 815 new members have joined.

The site includes access to a range of resources such as micro computing kits, 3D printers, scanners and software, Virtual Reality sets and a laser cutter.

Other services include a new bookable meeting room, printing and free access to computers and self-serve digital tablets for members.

A range of activities are also held at the library, including story time and baby bounce and rhyme, dance and craft workshops plus digital support sessions.

Photos inside Stroud Library at Five Valleys Shopping Centre (Image: UGC)

Update on the old library & Stroud Spiritualist Church

The old Lansdown library was previously closed by officials in early February as a “precautionary measure” after the discovery of RAAC - Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete.

Meanwhile, council officials have now also announced an “engagement event” on plans for the old library and The Old County Library - also known as the Stroud Spiritualist Church.

GCC say they plan to reveal “further information” during the event - which is due to take place in mid-August.

It comes as squatters from activist group SISTER (Stroud in Internationalist Solidarity Together for Earth Repairs) temporarily took over Stroud Spiritualist Church last summer. 

"Pop in and see what is on offer"

Cllr Dave Norman, GCC cabinet member for libraries said: “I’m delighted Stroud Library has now opened in its new location and is proving so popular with customers. 

“They are pleased the library is now based in a more central spot and have given really positive feedback.

“It offers a wide range of services, as well as a comprehensive range of books, so I would encourage anyone who hasn’t visited yet to pop in and see what is on offer.”

The library is located on the lower ground floor of the shopping centre in King Street.

It is free to join and people are encouraged to sign up here - tinyurl.com/56tnud5c

The old Stroud Library closed in February after the discovery of RAAC (Image: Newsquest)

Activists from SISTER standing outside Stroud Spiritualist Church during their occupation last summer  (Image: SISTER)