Big Build at The Old Library

Aim: We are fundraising to cover the cost of building an accessible toilet, a new flat roof, fire escape and a defibrillator

We have been trying to install an accessible toilet at The Old Library for quite some time! In 2020 during lockdown, some very unscrupulous builders scarpered with much of the money that we had raised, leaving their substandard work unfinished. Everything that they did is having to be demolished and started again. 

The Old Library desperately needs this accessible toilet so that the building can be used comfortably by everyone. We have several regular groups with accessibility needs and they've been struggling with our single, cramped toilet space for years. Having this new facility will mean that there are two toilets, so there will be less queuing, and we will be able to put on more events which cater to everyone in the local community.

We have engaged a reputable company, We Care, to oversee the building work. We Care have over 30 years track record in the trade supporting builds in conjunction with Bristol City Council. The works will be started in summer 2023 and we are hoping to be able to reopen with our new facilities in September/October 2023.

Who are we?

The Old Library is a community space managed and run entirely by volunteers. We are a Community Interest Company, and we run a Community Cafe, events such as our Annual Summer Party, our monthly Repair Cafe, Quiz Nights, Circle Dance Nights, Climate Book Club, Forest School, and STEAM club. We also have regular Jumble Sales, Clothes Swaps, Toy Sales, and more! The venue is also available for private hire for birthday parties and other events. 

We rely entirely on our amazing volunteers to make all this happen. Our overarching aims are to create a positive impact on our local community, to share collaborate and help each other and to facilitate opportunities for learning and enjoyment. Everyone who comes to the Old Library agrees what an amazing space it is both inside and out, and what an asset it is to the local community.

The building

The building dates from the 1950s and it is in need of general maintenance and updating. There is one large room inside the building, and a small area at the back which includes a kitchen, boiler room and one very small toilet. We have always needed an additional toilet which is accessible to everybody.

The plans

We Care have produced detailed plans of the build which have now been approved by the City Council and the work is now going out to tender.

As you can see the plans include an additional toilet and a hallway space which is large enough for someone in a wheelchair to navigate. There will also be a new fire exit leading to the garden. We are also taking the opportunity to create a new flat roof over the whole of the rear extension.

The financial cost

We do not yet know the exact cost of the build as the work is out to tender at the moment. We will know more in mid June and will provide an update at that point.

We Care have estimated that the total cost will be about £63,000 plus VAT. We still have about £30,000 of the original funds that we raised, but obviously costs have risen sharply since then. We are also hoping that this Crowdfunder will also enable us to go ahead with other much needed maintenance of the building and the installation of a defibrillator on the premises.

How you can help

• Make a pledge - no matter how small, every donation counts!
• Help us to spread the word - tell your friends and family, share widely on social media!
• Do a bit of fundraising yourself - maybe you'd like to do a sponsored swim, a cake sale, anything goes!
• Volunteer some of your time to help us find and apply for grants.

For further information please contact us on [email protected]. 

Many thanks! 

The Director Team at The Old Library