Liverpool is bringing the light back next month as city prepares to reopen the library and community hub which was torched during the summer’s racist riots.
Spellow Library & Community Hub will become part of the community once again, following the completion of works to rectify the damage which destroyed part of the building in August, closing the much-loved venue that had only been open for just over a year, following a revamp in 2023.
The arson attack on the Walton based venue, which prompted a huge outcry and a nationwide response with book donations from Her Majesty the Queen and a host of famous authors as well as a £250,000 fundraising campaign, will open its doors to the public once again on Thursday, 12 December.
To mark the occasion, the Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Liam Robinson, is calling on every local authority in England and Wales to be part of a nationwide symbolic moment on the eve of the reopening.
Councillor Robinson is writing to councils, asking them to light up one of their libraries on Wednesday 11 December, in a show of solidarity, hope and joy. By having a light, or a lantern in a window, or illuminating the outside of a building, this will symbolically shine a light on libraries as places of sanctuary, knowledge and community.
#ShareTheLight #SpellowLibrary
When should I light up my library?
Light up your library on the evening of Wednesday 11 December. This could be inside, outside or both.
Our library has automatic lighting what can we do?
If possible override the system and leave the lights on. If not, look for alternatives. For example, do you have a window where you could display a lantern with a battery operated light or candle?
White light is best but if you only have coloured this will work too.
Is there any budget to support this?
Unfortunately not. This moment shines a spotlight on libraries across the country as they light up in solidarity with Spellow Library & Community Hub on the eve it reopens its doors to residents and users in Liverpool.
How do I let you know that my library wants to be involved and what we are doing?
Please email: cultureliverpool@liverpool.gov.uk
