Delivering a Landmark Community Destination
As part of Surrey County Council wider Libraries Transformation Programme, Staines Library Hub underwent one of the most ambitious projects within the county’s library estate. The existing library was relocated onto a newly repurposed building, providing opportunity to create a modern, multi-functional destination that combines library services with cultural, educational and community facilities.
The vision was to deliver a vibrant public space that reflected the evolving role of the modern library while meeting the needs of a diverse community. The project required comprehensive design solutions capable of bringing together traditional library services alongside heritage museum facilities, registration services and a variety of flexible community spaces within a single building.
Working closely with Surrey Libraries’ project team, we developed an environment that maximises the building’s impressive scale and natural light while ensuring visitors can easily navigate the space. Spanning two floors, the new library required thoughtful planning to create a distinct yet connected zones that supports a wider variety of activities.
The completed space includes extensive children’s facilities, dedicate IT and study areas, private study pods, flexible reading and learning spaces, meeting rooms, and events areas. Museum exhibition spaces have been fully integrated into the visitor experience, creating opportunities for cultural engagement alongside traditional library services. Large windows throughout the building flood the interior with natural daylight, creating a welcoming and uplifting environment that encourages visitors to stay longer and make greater use of the spaces.
Accessibility and inclusivity were fundamental considerations throughout the design process, with spaces created to support users of all ages and abilities. Flexible furniture and adaptable layouts ensure the library can continue responding to changing community demands in the future.
Since the reopening of Staines Library Hub in July 2025, the response and impact of the transformation have been significant.
- Visitor numbers have increased by 118%
- New memberships have risen by 79%
- Book borrowing has also grown by 11%
These results demonstrate that investment in modern, community-focused environments built for diversity can strengthen engagement with both traditional and emerging library services.
Today, Staines Library Hub serves as a flagship example of how unique design and thoughtful investments can transform a public building into a thriving community destination that supports learning, culture and connection.
Read more about Surrey County Council’s Libraries Transformation Programme here.
