Bill Jamieson: Here’s a chance for the capital to turn over a new leaf

THIS ambitious Central Library refurbishment will be great for books and for book lovers. But there are other compelling reasons why it merits attention.

First, as a regeneration project, it is an exemplar, bringing new life and purpose to a valued public service in the heart of Scotland’s capital. It will provide vital employment at all levels of skill and be a significant addition to the city as a knowledge and cultural centre. It is also another example of how a non-economic function at the heart of the city can bring economic benefit.

Second, it enables the city to renew the purpose and content of a central library. These have changed much since the present building opened in 1890. It will enable the library to expand its presence as an ideas and knowledge centre, broaden its appeal to a new generation of users and provide both better access to collections and a wider range of functions and attractions.

Third, the new library complex will create a hub at the centre of the city. Sited opposite is the National Library of Scotland, with the Scottish Poetry Library and the Scottish Story Telling Centre nearby, this should draw worldwide visitors and enhance the city’s international appeal as home to the world’s largest book festival and the status of the capital as a Unesco World City of Literature.

The big challenge will be funding. This is a large, 12-storey B-listed building. Redevelopment is likely to total between £70 million and £90m. Funding will come from sale of land at the rear of the building, shared revenue from the completed development incorporating a hotel, private donations, corporate charitable support (the current building was partly financed by Carnegie), council funding and with the prospect (as with the Manchester library refurb) of National Lottery support. The council hopes to be “on site” in two years, with work set to take one and a half years.

The central library is long due an overhaul. The trams debacle brought the city council close to a collective nervous breakdown.

Here is a project that should show the world the best of which this capital is capable. It is an opportunity it should seize with both hands.