We are so thrilled that Shenfield library is now open.

 

In the weeks leading up to the grand reopening, the community’s enthusiasm was palpable. On February 22, 2025, a February Fun Day was organized in collaboration with Brentwood Connected to celebrate the library’s return. The event featured face painting, animal handling sessions, creative crafts, and engaging storytime sessions, drawing families from all over Shenfield and beyond. 

 

On February 26, 2025, Shenfield Library celebrated its grand reopening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a new chapter for this cherished community hub. The event was graced by the presence of the Mayor of Brentwood, esteemed councillors from across the county, representatives from Essex Housing, members of Friends of Shenfield, and Brentwood Connected. A special highlight was the attendance of students from Shenfield St. Mary’s School, honoured for their outstanding achievement in winning the summer reading challenge. We sincerely hope they enjoyed their special storytime session with Storyteller Mike Dodsworth. To see a video of the special day, click here. 

 

Since its doors reopened, Shenfield Library has welcomed over 4,000 visitors, reflecting its vital role in the community. The successful completion of this project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Essex Housing, local government officials, and the Shenfield community. 

 

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We are delighted to announce that we will now be open 6 days a week when previously we were only opened 5.

 

Our new opening hours will be:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 09:00-17:30
Thursday: 09:00-19:00
Friday: 09:00-17:30
Saturday: 09:00-17:00

 

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Be sure to check out this fantastic time lapse of the closure to rebuilding Shenfield Library.

 

With the building work now completed, our new Shenfield Library will offer residents a bright, new modern library and commercial space, with nine high quality apartments above.  The fit out of the library space will take place over the coming weeks, ready to welcome residents for a much-anticipated launch in February.

 

The new Shenfield library represents Essex County Council’s first library to use Air Source Heat Pumps, with the development also including Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery and Electric Vehicle Charging Points for residents that exemplify the development’s sustainable credentials. At the time of planning submission, the combined residential, library and commercial elements achieved a 54% carbon emission saving over and above building regulations.   A new public garden, outdoor learning and activity space further enhances the library service offer. We are so close to opening and welcoming our residents.