The Corn Exchange Newbury has embarked on an ambitious campaign to revitalize the historic Old Library, breathing new life into this beloved Newbury landmark.
The initiative, which marks a significant milestone in the town’s cultural landscape, aims to repurpose the unused building into a vibrant arts hub, enriching the community with creative opportunities and fostering engagement with the arts.
Led by the Corn Exchange (Newbury) Trust, comprising the Corn Exchange, 101 Outdoor Arts, and the Learning Centre, this venture promises to provide a permanent home for creative participation initiatives. The project, supported by Greenham Trust and a consortium of backers including the Backstage Trust, Foyle Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, and Syder Foundation, seeks to raise £2.6 million to realise its vision.
The restoration of the Old Library will not only preserve its historic charm but also serve as a catalyst for social change. With a focus on enhancing access to cultural experiences and addressing issues of social isolation, mental health, and inequality, the Corn Exchange’s initiatives aim to uplift the community and dismantle barriers to artistic expression.
Key projects slated for the Old Library include Ageing Creatively, offering classes to combat social isolation among older communities, and Links to Thrive, a groundbreaking ‘arts on prescription’ program supporting individuals with mental health conditions. Additionally, the venue will host Careers in the Arts, a collaborative effort with the Watermill Theatre to nurture aspiring talent and promote career opportunities in the creative industries.
Jessica Jhundoo-Evans, Director of Corn Exchange Newbury & 101 Outdoor Arts, underscores the importance of community support in realising this transformative vision. “We are asking for your support to transform the Old Library into a new community space,” she emphasides, highlighting the profound impact such initiatives have on local residents.
As the campaign enters its public phase, individuals are encouraged to contribute to this landmark endeavor, ensuring the Old Library’s legacy as a beacon of creativity and inclusivity for generations to come.
For further information and to donate, visit cornexchangenew.com/oldlibrary.
