HUDDERSFIELD Library is the most popular in Yorkshire – and that’s official.
More than one million people went through its doors in the past 12 months, making it one of the top five most popular regional libraries in the UK and the top one in Yorkshire.
But library staff insist they are more than just a centre for bookworms.
They have worked hard to establish the Library as a real hub of the community, with countless groups meeting there on a regular basis.
The UK library survey was done by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA).
Huddersfield had 1,021,829 visitors in 2010-11. Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, which had 1,496,186 visitors, topped the poll.
Whilst Huddersfield was the most visited library in the region, Sheffield Central library issued more items. Sheffield issued 482,825 items compared to Huddersfield’s 377,204.
Jon Graham, managing director of CIPFA said: “Huddersfield’s achievement proves that modern libraries are still popular community institutions, offering services and support beyond book lending.
“The increase in volunteers also shows how libraries continue to be seen as much valued hubs for their communities.”
Library staff welcomed today’s survey results.
Tanya Horan, of Kirklees Cultural Services, said: “It is wonderful that Huddersfield Library is the most popular Library in Yorkshire.
“This is a credit to the staff who have worked tremendously hard to create a welcoming environment that our customers appreciate.
