A vibrant new children’s library has opened its doors within the redeveloped Grade II listed Maesteg Town Hall, quickly becoming a celebrated hub for learning, play, and community connection. With its innovative design, inspired by the local landscape and industrial heritage, the space is already being hailed as a pioneering example of how public facilities can captivate young imaginations and foster a love of reading.
From a “Dynamic River” that flows through the library’s layout to tiered seating and storage inspired by the nearby mountains, every element of the design sparks curiosity and exploration. Reading spaces modelled on coal mine tunnels offer cosy retreats, while features like a slide, rock climb, and bespoke furniture encourage creativity and interaction. The design, led by Initiate Architecture and crafted by Pontyclun-based Karna Design, reflects a seamless blend of functionality, playfulness, and cultural heritage.
What sets this library apart is not just its bold vision but its collaborative creation. Awen Cultural Trust, the organisation behind the project in collaboration with Brigend County Borough Council, enlisted pupils from Cwmfelin Primary School and Ysgol Cynwyd Sant to contribute their ideas through creative workshops. Using paper straws, cardboard, and an abundance of imagination, the children envisioned features that now take pride of place in the library. Architect Ross Hartland, of Initiate, called the process “inspiring,” emphasising how the children’s input shaped the design in ways no adult perspective could.
Since its opening, the library has captured the hearts of the local community, with parents praising its warm and inviting environment, describing it as a sanctuary that encourages children to put down their devices and immerse themselves in the world of books. Teachers and community leaders have commended the library’s role in fostering a love of learning, noting how its thoughtful design has made reading a more adventurous experience for its young users. Far more than just a place to borrow books, the space has been designed for storytelling sessions, homework clubs, social gatherings, and quiet moments of discovery. Its success underscores the value of designing public spaces that serve as dynamic, multi-functional environments.
The library’s innovative approach draws heavily on the Llynfi Valley’s industrial and natural heritage. Tiered seating mimics the rugged mountains, while accents of orange evoke the area’s iron ore deposits. Circular, charcoal-grey stools pay homage to the region’s coal mining history, creating a space where the past and present meet to inspire future generations.
Unlike traditional library projects, Maesteg children’s library deliberately avoided off-the-shelf solutions. Awen Cultural Trust championed the creation of bespoke furniture and features, commissioning Karna Design to craft elements tailored specifically for this space. The result is not just a functional library but a work of art that reflects and celebrates the unique identity of the local community.
Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said:
“This library is a testament to the creativity and dreams of the children who helped design it. We wanted to create a space where children could feel a sense of ownership and excitement – a place where they would want to spend hours exploring, learning, and connecting. Thanks to their ideas and the hard work of everyone involved, we’ve achieved something truly special.”
