Haydock Library showcased on world stage alongside prestigious national libraries
Haydock Library has been showcased alongside some of the country's most prestigious libraries as the UK prepares to host the 2027 World Library and Information Congress (WLIC), the world's leading annual event for the global library and information community.
Article date: 26 August 2026
Haydock Library features in a new film produced by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), which announces London as the WLIC 2027 destination and invites the world to celebrate IFLA's centenary year by exploring libraries across the UK.
The film goes on to highlight some remarkable and historic libraries, including The British Library and the House of Commons Library in London, the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford, and the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth, before showcasing Haydock Library in St Helens.
An international audience saw the film first during the WLIC 2026 closing ceremony, in Busan, South Korea.
You can watch it on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLSZntDpme4
Haydock Library reopened in March this year following its ambitious transformation into a fully SEND inclusive library spaces for children and adults.
The transformed library supports a wide range of inclusive features, including:
- Modern, flexible community spaces
- Digital learning and creative facilities
- Dedicated children's and family reading areas
- Meeting rooms and quiet study zones
- Improved accessibility and inclusive design throughout
Led by award winning artist and composer Dr Emily Peasgood and architect Ben Allen, the council commissioned project represents a bold step away from conventional library design - which has no doubt contributed to Haydock's international recognition.
Councillor Stephen Claybrook, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Heritage, alongside fellow Haydock ward Councillors Michael Chesworth and Tony Devanny, said:
"Haydock Library is a truly remarkable place and it is a proud moment for us to see it showcased along with some of the UK's most prestigious libraries on the world stage.
"Haydock Library is at the very heart of our community, ensuring that library users of all ages and needs can access the plentiful learning and leisure opportunities we have on offer.
"All of the staff and management should feel immensely proud of the work they put in day, in day out to provide such an important service for our local residents.
"We encourage people of all ages in Haydock and all across the borough to take advantage of the excellent library services we have on offer."
Of the reopening, Luke Burton, Director of Libraries for Arts Council England, said:
"I'm very pleased that we've supported the new SEND library at Haydock Library through the Libraries Improvement Fund. Libraries exist for all and it's so important that everyone, no matter their circumstances or needs, can access them and enjoy everything they have to offer. I'm sure that the local community will benefit from all the new spaces and facilities as well as the programme of activities."
Haydock Library offers a range of regular events including Read and Rhyme Time and Sensory Baby sessions, alongside chat and crafts, and gentle exercise for adults, while the Sensory Room is available every Friday, 4pm-5pm for drop in.
A new events programme is launching from 7 September (across all libraries) packed with activities for all ages including Sensory Babies, Toddler Time, Construction Club, accessible after school crafts, digital support and library afternoon socials - plus lots more!
And there's still time for children to complete this year's Summer Reading Challenge - Read to the Beat!
Check out the Library Services' what's on calendar: https://catalogue.sthelens.gov.uk/?browseCategory=main_featured