Library Renovation Opens Doors for Future Generations

The shelves are being cleared and the books are being boxed up, but this is not the end of the story for one of Belize City’s best-known public institutions. The Leo Bradley Library is preparing for a major transformation that promises more space, modern equipment and easier access for everyone. The project will also preserve the legacy of a library system that has served Belizeans for more than ninety years. News Five’s Britney Gordon visited the historic learning center as it prepares to turn the page.

 

Britney Gordon, Reporting

“The Leo Bradley Library in Belize City is typically filled wall to wall with books, but right now, all you might see are boxes. It’s the headquarters of the Belize National Library Service and Information System and it’s about to undergo major renovations. Chief Librarian, Lusiola Castillo, tells us more.”

 

For decades, the Leo Bradley Library has connected Belizeans with books, information and educational opportunities. But time and the elements have taken a toll on the building. Even the sign identifying the library has faded from view, leaving some passers-by unaware that the national headquarters is located here.

 

Lusiola Castillo, Chief Librarian

“Any building after a number of years need some TLC. And if you can see the outside of the building, you will realize, only from the outside, you need to upgrade it because, several persons have come by and say, ‘I didn’t know the library was here.’ We’re at the back, and the signage has actually vanished because it, with the natural elements, it just faded. So 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.”

 

Belize’s national public library system began in 1935 as the Jubilee Library. That institution helped lay the foundation for the Leo Bradley Library and the nationwide network that exists today. But the modern library offers much more than books. It provides internet access, educational programs and a safe space where Belizeans of all ages can learn, conduct research and connect with their communities.

 

Lusiola Castillo

“We serve the entire country of Belize, and which means that we process books, we look at their infrastructure development. We assist wherever possible when it comes to the development of programs. We do programs for the children, for the youths, for adults, for seniors, and we do it in educational, activities, through educational activities, social activities, cultural activities, book presentations, story readings, and that’s just to name a few.”

 

The building carries the name of Leo Bradley Senior, Belize’s first professionally trained chief librarian. His work helped expand library services across the country and equipped generations of library workers with the knowledge needed to continue that mission.

 

Lusiola Castillo

“Mr. Leo Bradley was the first trained Belizean librarian because we had other librarians before him, but he was the first Belizean librarian. He used to ensure that the staff that were working with him get the knowledge that is needed for us to be able to continue developing libraries throughout the country, and we have done. His legacy continues through the Leo Bradley Library and all the forty-nine other service points throughout the country.”

 

The renovation project now aims to carry that legacy into a new era. Plans include expanding the building, installing an elevator and upgrading the electrical and air-conditioning systems. The project will also improve parking and fencing, refurbish the interior and exterior and create a dedicated space for cultural events and community activities.

 

Lusiola Castillo

“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, as you mentioned, and also to be able to be active with each other. We do different activities to encourage people to read, to promote their culture, their knowledge, to share their experiences, because that’s what a library is.”

 

While the building prepares for its physical transformation, the library’s work continues through reading competitions, storytelling sessions, summer programs and cultural events designed to help children discover a lifelong love of reading. The books may be in boxes for now, but the Leo Bradley Library is getting ready to open a bigger, more accessible chapter for future generations. Britney Gordon for News Five.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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