A remodelled and refurbished library in Orpington is set to reopen its doors to the public tomorrow, inviting residents to attend the grand opening event, explore the new facilities and enjoy some special activities.

The modernized venue at St Paul's Cray Library on Mickleham Road aims to merge the library service with the Community Support Centre service, previously known as the Cotmandene Resource Centre.

Residents will have the opportunity to seek advice and guidance from experienced staff and access partner services.

The free grand opening event will take place from 2m to 4.30pm on August 8 and promises a range of special activities and complimentary refreshments.

Attendees can look forward to children's craft events, outdoor games, book readings, and poetry recitals.

Notably, children's author Peter Bently will share insights about his latest book, "Hamster Heroes." The library will officially be opened by Deputy Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Keith Onslow, with a delightful string quartet providing musical accompaniment.

According to Bromley Council, the remodelled library building has been designed to cater to the needs of both support centre and library customers.

It includes a new children's area, alongside shared facilities such as computer suites, study areas, community hire spaces, and accessible toilets.

The addition of modern consultation rooms allows for confidential one-to-one meetings.

Moreover, improvements have been made to the lighting and heating systems.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said: “This is a brilliant new facility that has been carefully designed to accommodate the needs of these important services for the benefit of the local community who use them.

“I am delighted that we have secured residents access to these services over the long term through delivering an impressive, modern library building for all to enjoy.

“This is just one step in our wider strategy of improving library facilities across the borough, in recognition of the invaluable role they play in so many residents’ lives, with our libraries issuing more books last year than any other borough.”

Approximately £11 million has been allocated to modernize a total of eleven libraries throughout the borough, including repairs and the replacement of aging materials.

Concurrently, major regeneration efforts are already underway at West Wickham Library.

Other libraries in Beckenham, Burnt Ash Lane, Chislehurst, Hayes, Mottingham, Orpington, Penge, Petts Wood, and Southborough will undergo phased improvements to ensure neighbouring libraries remain accessible during the works.

Further details regarding each project will be provided in due course.