FAQs
What does the Central Library and Graves Gallery building currently house?
The Central Library currently delivers a range a services including the central lending library, the children’s library, local studies library, home library service and is the home of the Library Theatre. Based on the third floor of the building, the Graves Gallery is home to the city’s visual art collection, displaying works for national and international artist alongside the region’s own creative talents.
Some years ago, there was a proposal to work with developers to convert the Central Library and Graves Gallery building into a luxury hotel. Is that still a possibility?
No, this is not an option being explored. The Council recognises that this building is a much-loved local asset and we are determined to keep it as a public building with cultural uses at its heart.
Feasibility project
Will the project address the problem that the Archives and Local Studies Library are in two different places and open on different days?
We are aware that the current arrangements do not work well for people researching their family history, people with interests in different aspects of Sheffield life and other users. The options being developed will include ways to deliver a better service for residents, visitors, and researchers.
Will the current Central Library and Graves Gallery building have all the same services and facilities as they do now?
The aim is to deliver the best possible library and archives services to the people of Sheffield, and to make the Graves Gallery a vibrant destination for residents and visitors.
As the experts look at what spaces are needed, it might be that some of the options considered involve moving some services to other sites in the city centre – but there will be no major changes without a full public consultation and the chance for everybody to have their say.
How can I get involved?
In this first phase of the project, we will be consulting with specialist user groups linked to the Central Library, City Archives and Graves Gallery.
We will also be setting up a building user panel with individuals representing different demographic groups who regularly use the building to help develop the vision for the future of the services.
In autumn/winter 2025, once a refined list of options has been developed, a larger scale public consultation, with multiple ways to contribute your views, both online and in person, will be launched.
What is the timescale for the consultation and subsequent decision making?
In autumn/winter 2025, once a refined list of options has been developed, a larger scale public consultation, with multiple ways to contribute your views, both online and in person, will be launched.
The building
What specific structural issues have been identified in the building?
Surveyors are currently assessing the structure to identify the full extent of the issues, but we already know that significant work is required to prevent further deterioration; repair the building and protect its historic features.
How much will the repair and restoration work cost, and how is it being funded?
We are still in the early stages of assessing the full costs. This feasibility study will help us understand the scale of investment needed. Once we have a clearer picture, we’ll explore a range of funding options, including potential grants and partnerships.
How long will the repair work take, and will the building remain open during this time?
We are still in the early stages of carrying out surveys to scope out the extent of works required, how long they will take and how disruptive they might be. We will do what we can to minimise disruption to services but as with any major refurbishment project, some disruption is unavoidable and some services may have to move temporarily.
What steps are being taken to preserve the building’s historic features/can you ensure this will happen?
The building is a Grade II listed building, and its listed status includes some internal as well as external features. The project team will work with the Council’s own heritage specialists as well as city heritage partners and Historic England to explore the best ways to preserve historic features whilst also giving the building a much longer lifespan.
How will local people be involved in shaping the future of the building?
Public input is vital. After the initial review, we’ll launch a full public consultation with online surveys, community meetings, and workshops. We want to hear from as many people as possible.