Surrey County Council’s Libraries Transformation Programme was established to modernise and futureproof the county’s network of 52 libraries, ensuring they continue to meet the changing needs of local communities while remaining at the heart of community life. Due to the changing requirements of community spaces, libraries today play a far broader role than traditional book lending, now providing access to digital technology, learning opportunities, business support, wellbeing initiatives and safe community spaces. Surrey County Council has recognised the need to create flexible, vibrant, and welcoming environments capable of supporting the evolving needs of the local community.
Working in partnership with Surrey Libraries, we have delivered a series of refurbishments, relocations and redevelopment projects across the county. Guided by Surrey County Council’s overarching Libraries and Cultural Services Strategy and an established design framework inspired by the Carnegie model, each project sought to create spaces that encourage learning, cultural engagement, creativity and social connection.
A key challenge was translating this strategic vision into practical, user-focused environments across a diverse portfolio of buildings. Every library required a tailored solution that reflected the needs of its local community while maintaining consistency with the wider transformation programme.
Our approach focused on creating bright, accessible and adaptable public library spaces that support a wide range of activities. Flexible furniture solutions, dedicated study areas, meeting rooms, digital learning zones, and collaborative areas were integrated throughout each location. Careful space planning, clear sightlines, and the effective use of natural light, sensory spaces, and acoustic solutions helped create welcoming environments that encourage visitors to spend more time within the library.
Accessibility and inclusivity are central to every library design project we undertake, incorporating Dementia and Autism-friendly design principles to ensure all members of the community could benefit from the facilities. The result is a network of modern community hubs that foster lifelong learning, support wellbeing and social interaction, while remaining adaptable to future needs.
Through this transformation programme, Surrey County Council has successfully reimagined the role of the library, creating vibrant, future-ready destinations that continue to strengthen communities across the county.
