Temple Hill Library reopened earlier this year following a significant refurbishment as part of Kent County Council’s wider co-location programme, which is bringing Family Hub services into libraries and other community settings to create more joined-up local services that are easier to access and shaped around residents’ needs.
Temple Hill Library and Family Hub is now a single shared space, designed to bring together services for families, children, young people and the wider community in one place. This makes it easier for residents to access help, advice and activities without needing to visit multiple locations.
The improvements have created a modern, flexible environment that combines trusted library services with accessible family support in one convenient location. As part of the redesign, some library space was reconfigured to introduce dedicated Family Hub facilities, including consultation rooms and a waiting area.
Members were joined by KCC colleagues and residents for a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The shared space offers the best of both services, with visitors able to access books, digital resources, study spaces and a wide range of events and activities through the library, alongside Family Hub support including parenting advice, children’s activities, health and wellbeing guidance, and links to local services. Families can also benefit from drop-in support, group sessions and access to services such as Health Visiting appointments.
By bringing these services together, residents can access more support in one place, combining practical help, information and activities in a single visit. The co-location also allows staff to work more closely together, helping ensure families receive the right support at the right time.
The community event provided an opportunity to showcase the co-located services and highlight how the space is already supporting local residents.
“It’s fantastic to see the community come together to celebrate this refreshed Temple Hill Library and Family Hub.”
Richard Palmer, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “It’s fantastic to see the community come together to celebrate this refreshed Temple Hill Library and Family Hub.
‘Libraries are at the heart of our communities, and this investment has created a brighter, more modern and flexible space that people can enjoy for years to come.
‘By bringing services together in a building people already know, we are making it easier for residents to access support, information and opportunities all in one place.
‘Whether you’re coming in to read, learn, meet others or find help and advice, this space has been designed to feel welcoming and inclusive for everyone.”
“The community day is all about celebrating and showing residents how we are making things easier for families.”
Paul Webb, Cabinet Member for Integrated Children's Services, added: “The community day is all about celebrating and showing residents how we are making things easier for families.
‘We are really pleased to be bringing the Family Hub and the library together in one shared space.
‘The library remains the library people know and love, with books, activities, computers and a welcoming place to spend time. Alongside this, families can now access Family Hub support in the same building, helping to give every child the best start in life.
‘Having everything under one roof means people don’t have to visit different locations or work out who to contact, they can simply start here, in a familiar and friendly environment.”
While library and Family Hub services may operate at different times, clear information and staff are on hand to help visitors access the support they need.
KCC hopes the improved Temple Hill Library and Family Hub will become a vibrant hub for residents of all ages, whether they are regular library users or visiting for the first time.
