The city is planning to build an innovative ‘signature’ building to replace the recently demolished library. A proposed design was submitted for Planning Permission in April. From August 2006 to March 2007 Birmingham Libraries undertook a community consultation project to engage local people in discussions about the design of the new library and the ways in which they would like to use it. The emphasis was on testing ways of engaging with young people, though in the context of exploring the awareness and ideas of the whole community.

The report features: A partnership with the Youth Service to train young researchers to undertake consultations within the community on behalf of the library service. An outreach programme to explore the initial findings from the youth service activities and engage with a diverse range of people in the community through a range of organisations and services. A commission to an independent organisation - First Class Youth Direct – who specialise in communicating with young people in disadvantaged situations - to promote and hold a debate event on reading and libraries – talking to young people on behalf of the library service. Connecting Histories - A heritage and archives programme to enable people to think about library design in the context of their heritage and identity, and their sense of place and belonging – and highlighting the role of libraries in community cohesion. Enquiries about the project to geoff.mills@birmingham.gov.uk