Libraries embrace coffee culture

1:28pm Monday 18th June 2007

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READERS will be able to mix coffee with Kafka with the help of plans to put Starbucks cafés in libraries across the borough.

The plans, expected to be agreed on Thursday evening, will see the giant coffee chain installed in the borough's 17 libraries.

The plans are a part of a major redevelopment of libraries to improve facilities and customer satisfaction, with the Victoria Road and Manor Farm libraries the first to under go the changes.

Councillor Doug Mills (Con, Manor) said: "The opening of the new library opposite the Linden Avenue car park will coincide with a new Starbucks coffee shop inside the building.

"As the council develops 21st Century buildings and service delivery, we sought a partner and, as local councillors, both Councillor Markham and myself are delighted that Starbucks have agreed to be that partner."

The size of the different coffee shops will be varied to suit the libraries across the borough with fully licensed cafes in the largest libraries to self-service vending machines in the smallest.

The plans also include more dedicated areas for internet use, studying or activities, more modern designs and changes to the provision of resources.

Cllr Henry Higgins (Con, Harefield), cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure, said: "Good, well operated libraries are important to the cultural life of our community and we are taking bold steps to improve services for our customers.

"By putting our residents' needs at the heart of our plans we are bringing in new ideas and improving the facilities, which suit their needs.

"These plans demonstrate a clear commitment from the council to provide 21st Century services for Hillingdon, helping us to be a borough of learning and culture."

Work will start on the upgrades, if they get the expected approval at the council meeting on Thursday, towards the end of the year.