Conference and hospitality plans aims to add new chapter to Library’s revenue-raising abilities
A commercial partnership is having its final read-through this week before Birmingham councillors are expected to approve proposals which are designed to help support theatre and library services.
A jointly-commissioned independent report identified “significant further opportunities” for both venues to generate income by operating joint management arrangements.
The Library of Birmingham and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, which share a building in Centenary Square in the city centre, plan to work together to promote conferencing and hospitality opportunities and enable them to make better use of their spaces.
Cllr Ian Ward, deputy leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for the Library of Birmingham and Birmingham Repertory Theatre to work together creatively to provide a truly unique facility.
“This partnership will enable us to protect and invest in services within the Library and further strengthens our relationship with our colleagues at The REP.”
The Council believes the scheme will generate income, enabling the Library and The REP to “protect and invest in their respective services”.
The REP already promotes its venues and spaces for commercial use and it is hoped the Library will be able to put itself on a stronger financial footing by accessing its neighbour’s expertise in this area.
The report will go before the Cabinet of Birmingham City Council on July 25 and, if approved, the new arrangements will come into effect in October.
