Creating a place for the 21st Century

The Word is a community library for the 21st Century, a place centred around people. It’s inclusive for all, with a variety of welcoming spaces for individuals, groups, children and adults, enabling a mix of interaction and study.

Far from the traditional perception of a stuffy, silent library, The Word incorporates innovative exhibition space, FabLab with 3D printers, a TV and radio studio, a children’s immersive storytelling area, the OpenZone IT suite, a café and a rooftop terrace with views over the Tyne.

Delivering excellence

We believe that great design shouldn’t be the preserve of metropolitan cities and that quality architecture can be a catalyst for changing perspectives. Working with an extremely talented design and delivery team, we’ve brought a world-class building to this Northern seaside town.

Cultural capital

The Word has caught the imagination of placemaking experts, novelists and actors alike, with its winning combination of architectural excellence and community benefit. It has received tens of industry awards, from community benefit to design innovation.

Community value

The Word has made a genuine difference to people’s lives with the opportunities it has created.

In its opening week it attracted over 24,000 visitors increasing to over 88,000 in the first two months.

It remains a popular, well-loved and well-used community asset.