Oldham Libraries news 2026: Archives move, Royton Town Hall reopens

Oldham's libraries are having quite the year in 2026, with the National Year of Reading kicking off and residents being encouraged to fall back in love with their local libraries. The timing couldn't be better, as Oldham Libraries has just been awarded a Met Strong rating by Arts Council England-the highest possible rating that recognizes excellence in library services. This national recognition comes as the service prepares for significant changes, including the temporary closure of Oldham...

The restoration of Royton Town Hall and Library has already brought one major success story, with the historic building officially reopening in September 2024 after a landmark restoration project that brought it back to its original Victorian splendour. The £564,375 funding boost announced in July 2024 for Gallery Oldham and the central library building shows the council's commitment to modernizing these important community spaces. Meanwhile, Northmoor Library is set to start an exciting new...

The archives move represents both an opportunity and a challenge for local history enthusiasts. While the new facility in the Spindles Centre promises to be purpose-built for the service's needs, the temporary closure over summer 2025 means researchers and residents will need to plan ahead. The latest exhibition at Gallery Oldham, which looks forward to the next chapter in the long history of the Old Library building, seems particularly timely given all these changes.