The Leo Bradley Library in Belize City is preparing for major renovations aimed at improving the library for the patrons and staff.
Chief Librarian Lusiola Castillo says the building is in need of an upgrade, both in appearance and functionality. “Any building after a number of years need some TLC.”
Castillo said the need for improvements is visible from the outside, saying that the library’s signage has faded over time and some people passing by do not even realise the building houses the library.
“We’re at the back, and the signage has actually vanished because it, with the natural elements, it just faded,” she said.
She said the project is focused not only on the appearance of the facility. “We’re looking at the aesthetics of the library, but at the same time the comfort of the users or patrons and our staff as well.”
The Leo Bradley Library serves as the headquarters of the Belize National Library Service and Information System, which supports library services and programmes across the country.
“We serve the entire country of Belize,” Castillo said, explaining that the system supports infrastructure development and programmes for children, youths, adults and seniors.
The renovations are also expected to strengthen the library’s role as a place where people can learn, study and spend time in a safe environment.
“It’s very important because people need a safe space, and people need a place where they can go to just unwind, to learn, to do research… and also to be able to be active with each other.”
Castillo said Leo Bradley was the first trained Belizean librarian and worked to ensure that other library staff received the knowledge they needed to continue developing library services across the country.
“Mr. Leo Bradley was the first trained Belizean librarian because we had other librarians before him, but he was the first Belizean librarian.”
