Museums, archives and libraries in Wales will benefit from over £1.35 million Welsh Government capital funding to develop and enhance their facilities and services.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Transformation Capital Grant Programme is supporting, museums, archives and libraries to transform services for users, and ensure their future sustainability.
The Fund will modernise three libraries, in Ringland, Pyle, and Tonypandy, creating new community facilities, and supporting the establishment of wider ‘hubs’ where people can access library services alongside a range of other amenities. Funding is also provided to contribute to the integration of library and heritage services in Carmarthenshire and Conwy. A new archive repository will be added to the existing library building in Carmarthen, and the Conwy Culture Centre development will see the establishment of a new cultural destination, providing access to the library, archive and heritage collections.
Four museums will receive transformation funding to widen access to their collections, with support for refurbishment of The Judge’s Lodging in Presteigne and for Llandudno and Pontypool Museums, to improve facilities and safeguard collections. Funding is also provided for Cardiff Story to create an innovative new ‘guerrilla’ service, which will travel around local communities.
Announcing the funding, the Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport, Lord Elis-Thomas, said:
“I am delighted to be able to announce this funding of over £1.35 million for our museums, archives and libraries. I have seen first hand the improvements this fund has already made in creating bright, modern and welcoming spaces for everyone.
“The Welsh Government remains committed to supporting these important services. This fund will widen access for our communities, promoting cultural engagement, providing learning opportunities and supporting community cohesion and prosperity. I look forward to visiting the new facilities in due course, and encourage everyone to see what their local museum, archive or library has to offer. ”
During his visit to Glamorgan Archives, the Minister viewed the ‘Parliament and the First World War’ exhibition which will run until the 28th of June. And during Year of the Sea, the Minister also had the opportunity to view material from the maritime and coastal communities collections.
Lord Elis-Thomas, said:
“It’s been a fascinating visit to Glamorgan Archives, and an excellent opportunity to learn about the excellent work of the service. The six authorities that fund Glamorgan Archives are to be congratulated on the outcomes of this partnership, which has resulted in a state of the art building and an excellent and innovative approach to service delivery. There’s such a wealth of information on offer at the Archive – where people can find out about their families, communities – their story.”