The event, held on Friday 24 July, celebrated the successful transformation of the building into a modern, welcoming community space that brings together library and family support services under one roof.
The official opening included speeches and a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by KCC Cabinet Members Richard Palmer, Cabinet Member for Communities and Regulatory Services, and Paul Webb, Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services. Richard was joined by a young library user for the ribbon cutting, highlighting the important role the new Library and Family Hub will play in supporting local children, young people and families.
At the opening event, the space was filled with families enjoying a range of activities across the building.
On the day, the space was filled with families enjoying a range of activities across the building. Children signed up for the Summer Reading Challenge, families joined in with a lively Rhyme Time session, and many residents visited the Family Hub stall to find out more about the support, advice and activities on offer. The strong attendance and positive atmosphere demonstrated how quickly the new facility has become a valued community space.
Since reopening at the end of March, the Library and Family Hub has already welcomed more than 28,000 visits, demonstrating strong community demand and the valuable role the building plays as a hub for reading, learning, wellbeing and connection.
“It was wonderful to officially open Sittingbourne Library and Family Hub and see so many people celebrating this fantastic community facility.”
Richard Palmer, Cabinet Member for Communities and Regulatory Services, said: "It was wonderful to officially open Sittingbourne Library and Family Hub and see so many people celebrating this fantastic community facility.
‘Libraries are trusted spaces where people can read, learn, connect and access information. The refurbishment has created a modern, welcoming environment that reflects Sittingbourne's local character and heritage while providing excellent facilities for residents of all ages.
‘The fact that more than 28,000 visits have been recorded since reopening shows just how important this building is to the community. We are proud to provide a space where residents can access opportunities, support and activities all under one roof."
“The opening of Sittingbourne Library and Family Hub is a significant step in our commitment to giving every child the Best Start in Life.”
Paul Webb, Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services, said: "The opening of Sittingbourne Library and Family Hub is a significant step in our commitment to giving every child the Best Start in Life.
‘By bringing library and family support services together, we are making it easier for families to find the information, activities and help they need in a familiar and welcoming setting.
‘It was fantastic to see the positive response from residents and partners at the opening event. This facility will strengthen local connections and support children, young people and families for many years to come."
Sittingbourne Library and Family Hub is one of seven libraries in Kent that have been transformed into co-located spaces.
