A 'state-of-the-art' community space has opened at March Library.

Part of the ‘EverySpace’ project, Cambridgeshire Libraries say the 'flexible community resource will support people to develop their digital skills and empower local groups to host varied and exciting events and activities'.

Members of the library service, councillors and local partners gathered at March Library for the unveiling, with a cake cutting and a few words from the Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council, Cllr Sebastian Kindersley.

The 'mobile libraries' service helps to deliver hearing aid batteries to remote communities, over the summer libraries hosted the 'big summer read' to promote literacy amongst children and young people.

The Library Presents is one of the few library services in the country which receives Arts Council funding to deliver a programme of arts and culture across Cambridgeshire.

(Image: Cambridgeshire County Council)EverySpace is centred around adaptable, co-managed spaces that bring services closer to the community by enabling people to unleash their creativity, connect, share and discover at the library.

This new space at March Library has been funded by a grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and was delivered by Arts Council England.

A second space at Cambridge Central Library is scheduled to open early next year.

Through EverySpace, people will be able to get hands-on with new technologies, including video editing and sound recording equipment – and experiment with the flexible layouts to hold more workshops and events.

During the project, four young people aged 16 to 18 were chosen to take part in a mentorship scheme.

(Image: Cambridgeshire County Council)

The scheme, run by Cambridgeshire County Council, provided the young people with a chance to gain valuable insight into the professional design industry and build experience towards a potential future career.

Reflecting on the experience, mentee Remi Karim said: “It has been an amazing experience shadowing the EverySpace project.

“I have learnt so much about the design process and it was very impactful seeing the library transform to being able to better serve the community.”

Cllr Tom Sanderson, chair of Cambridgeshire County Council’s communities, social mobility and inclusion committee said: “Our libraries offer books and much, much more – they are vibrant community spaces where people can come together for social connection, support, and to engage with culture and creativity.

“EverySpace will make a huge difference to how March Library is used and will benefit residents for years to come.

“March Library provides a vital service for the local community and this new flexible space makes it an even more welcoming and comforting place for people to visit.”

Luke Burton, director of libraries for Arts Council England said: “The Arts Council is delighted to contribute to the EverySpace library scheme.

“Led by the community with a focus on equal accessibility, the project enriches opportunities for learning and creativity across Cambridgeshire.

“We are thrilled to see how this will empower residents with a further ability to connect, share, create and discover.”

The county council also recently approved £1.32m towards improving access to libraries.