Old Library Campaign | West Berkshire Villagers

Reopening Historic Creative Space

Corn Exchange Newbury Old Library Campaign

Public fundraising for Corn Exchange Newbury’s Old Library project hits £100k target

This incredible achievement marks the completion of the public phase of fundraising and allows construction works to be finalised.

Since launching the public campaign, an extraordinary range of fundraising initiatives have been launched.

From sponsored runs, bake sales, cheese and wine evenings, outdoor events and bucket collections, to special benefit performances and live events at the Corn Exchange Newbury including an evening with the legendary comedian Al Murray, fundraising concert Newbury Sounds, an evening with Bargain Hunt star Thomas Forrester, and literary festival the Festival of Words, the local community has come together in remarkable ways.

Fundraising quizzes, open mic nights, raffles, radio and TV interviews, and tours of the Old Library have also contributed to reaching this impressive landmark total.

After almost two years of dedicated fundraising, towards a total £1.3 million target, the project is set to deliver a permanent, accessible and welcoming arts hub, providing a home for Corn Exchange Newbury’s creative participation programmes.

The new creative hub will enable Corn Exchange Newbury to expand and enhance its creative programmes, delivering events designed to improve the emotional, physical and mental wellbeing of the local Newbury community and beyond.

The new initiatives, including youth dance companies and mobility and balance classes for adults, will complement an expanded youth theatre and a growing programme for the over-55s, featuring Sing 55 and Dare to Dance.

The summer programme of events will go on sale to Corn Exchange Members on 5th March at 10am and to the general public on 12th March at 10am. Sign up to their newsletter to hear more about these.

The Old Library will also feature a bright and airy café bar, offering fresh, handmade treats and locally roasted coffee.

Providing a welcoming place for visitors to meet, gather and connect, it will create a vibrant social space at the heart of the building.

As preparations continue for the building’s opening in April 2026, fundraising is now focused on fitting out the interior to ensure it is fully equipped to host a wide range of creative courses and classes.

Alongside approaches to local funders, and appeals for one off gifts and gifts in kind, the popular Name a Seat appeal continues to give supporters the chance to leave a lasting legacy within the building, attracting support from notable figures such as Dame Julie Walters.

Corn Exchange Newbury Old Library Campaign: Reopening Historic Creative Space

The Corn Exchange Newbury Old Library Campaign is fundraising to reopen the historic Cheap Street building as a new creative space for our community so that they can continue to transform lives through the arts.

Have look at their fundraising events and help them with their Old Library Campaign!

The Corn Exchange Newbury recently launched their campaign to reopen the historic Cheap Street building as a new creative space for our community so that they can continue to transform lives through the arts.

Since launching the public campaign just over a month ago their amazing supporters have helped to raise an incredible £51,379.73.

The Corn Exchange Newbury would like to thank all those who have donated to the campaign so far.

Participation in the Corn Exchange’s creative activities provides a lifeline to many local people: reducing social isolation and loneliness within the Newbury and surrounding area communities; improving mental health locally; and supporting young people in building confidence and self-esteem.

The Corn Exchange Newbury are proud of all the work they do, and say it is truly humbling to know how much this campaign is valued by everyone who has donated.

The Old Library will enable them to benefit more and more local people from the positive impact that engagement in creative activity and the arts can have.

YOU CAN INCREASE YOUR LEVEL OF SUPPORT FOR THE CAMPAIGN BY:

BECOMING AN OLD LIBRARY PATRON

For a donation of £1,000 you can be a key supporter and make a significant impact on the transformation of this beautiful historic building.

JOINING OUR CARNEGIE CLUB

Make a leadership gift of £5,000 and be instrumental in helping us reach our fundraising target.

JOINING THE OLD LIBRARY CORPORATE CLUB

Your company could support our vital work in the community.

NAMING A SPACE

There are naming opportunities available throughout the Old Library, including the engagement spaces and café bar.

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Contact Ruth Stillman, Head of Development ruths@cornexchangenew.co.uk for more information about making a donation.

If you would like to make a donation by cheque, CAF cheque or CAF voucher, please make it payable to Corn Exchange (Newbury) Trust and send to: Development Office, Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury RG14 5BQ or by hand to Corn Exchange Box Office.

Gift Aid – as a registered charity, for every £1 you give we can claim an extra 25p from HMRC, at no additional cost to you. To make your donation go further, tick the Gift Aid box when you make a donation online or complete the declaration form at www.cornexchangenew.com/support