Lea Bridge Library’s new million pound extension is now open to the public.
The original listed building in Lea Bridge Road, built in 1905, now benefits from a multi-use space and cafe, overlooking Friendship Gardens at the rear.
The library opened on September 20 and will be open seven days a week, with part of its new space available to hire.
Cutting the ribbon, newly-elected council leader Cllr Grace Williams said: “This is a country where it’s been harder and harder to keep libraries open.
“Libraries are a hub for communities, somewhere that everyone can come, a place where people can access our services and just a nice place in general.”
The council’s ambition was for the library to become a 'community hub' and point of contact for council services.
Money raised from the former Wood Street Library site contributed £600,000 to the construction, while a further £400,000 came from Greater London Authority’s regeneration funds.
Waltham Forest Council has been asked to provide more detail on the funding sourced from the former library site.
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