LYE Library is to get a makeover and some high-tech kit including VR headsets thanks to funding from the Arts Council.

The library has been awarded £144,715 from the government’s Libraries Improvements Fund, which supports important upgrades to museums and public libraries.

The plans for Lye include installing new moveable shelving and creating more flexible communal space within the library to allow it to host more groups and events.

IT systems will also be upgraded with the introduction of VR headsets, which will enable local children to access ICT, and ‘hublets’ so visitors can improve their IT skills using tablets and take part in video calls.

The library will also be renovated and repainted with new flooring and new seating.

Stephanie Rhoden, Dudley partnership manager at GLL, said: “We’re so grateful to receive this funding and for the recognition by the Arts Council that Lye Library is such a valued community asset and worth investing in.

“We will be using this funding for a mixture of improvements, from making the space more spacious and welcoming to investing in some really high-tech IT to allow all users but especially our younger users to access learning in a really fun and interactive way.”

Luisa Fulci, director of digital, customer and commercial services at Dudley Council, added: “We’re continuing to build on our ambitions for the library service.

“This additional funding for Lye library, alongside our recent announcement to continue to deliver services through GLL, shows our commitment to the service and our residents.”

Work is set to start in September, following consultation with community groups, schools and customers.

The library will be closed during the refurbishment, but library members will be able to use neighbouring libraries such as Cradley and Stourbridge or the Home Library Service.

Seventy organisations are to receive a share of more than £33 million through the Government’s Cultural Investment Fund. Of this, £20.5 million is allocated to the Libraries Improvement Fund to transform public library services in England by helping them upgrade buildings and improve digital infrastructure. Local authorities can bid for the money on behalf of their library services.