Library tunes up to create city’s dynamic new music facility

Open to the public this week and free for anyone to use, the new facilities mark a bold new direction for the library, and are aimed at ensuring that enjoying, making and listening to music is accessible for everyone in Leeds.

Alongside recording, visitors will be able to join in taster sessions on instruments including drums, guitar and ukulele while a new bespoke performance space will be the stage for local artists, bands and orchestras to showcase their talents.

As well as being a huge step into the future for the 140-year-old library, the music project is a realisation of the vision started by Alice Eleanor Burbridge, the city’s first dedicated music librarian.

Known as Eleanor to friends, or Ms Burbridge for those with overdue books, when the music library opened in 1950, her aim was to ensure music was accessible to all and would play a role in breaking down social barriers in Leeds.

Amassing a unique collection of scores and books she laid the foundation for today’s impressive collection, which includes the UKs largest array of performance sets, hired to orchestras and choirs across the country.

Jamie Hutchison, senior librarian at Leeds Central Library, said: “Everyone at the library is thrilled to see this project completed and to have been part of the creation of what will be a transformative new space for both the library and our visitors.

“At its heart, the new music library is about giving people from all communities in Leeds a space to feel welcome, where they can come together, be creative and express themselves. Our aim is to become that cultural cornerstone of the city.”

“It’s also humbling to know that we’re making the vision Eleanor Burbridge had all those years ago a reality and hopefully inspiring the next generation of Leeds musicians and creatives to achieve their own ambitions.”

The redevelopment project is part of wider refurbishment which will also see improvements made to the lending and children’s libraries.

The new music library will also offer a programme of free and paid events while aspiring music entrepreneurs will be able to access support from BIPC Leeds. The space and equipment will also be available for commercial hire for events, generating important income for the service.

Funding for the project has come through a generous £267,000 grant from Arts Council England, with additional funding from Leeds City Council.

Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: “Leeds Central Library is a huge part of the city’s history and plays a key role in preserving the heritage of Leeds.

“But our aim has always been for the library to also be a fun, vibrant and interactive place where people can attend events, socialise and pursue their hobbies and interests.

“The new facilities will enhance and improve both aspects of the library, providing a range of exciting, modern facilities for the city’s aspiring creatives and communities to use whilst also paying tribute to the original vision for Leeds’s unique and historic music library.”

More information about Leeds Central Library including facilities and opening hours can be found at: Central Library | Leeds Library

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