The South Wales Miners’ Library (SWML) will soon move to a new location within Swansea Council’s Y Storfa community services hub on Oxford Street. The SWML, which preserves the industrial, social, and cultural heritage of the region, will join other services in the redeveloped former BHS building.
A new video released by Swansea Council provides a first look at the transformed space. The footage features both the exterior and interior of Y Storfa, including areas such as the main reception, children’s library, open-plan library, contact centre, meeting rooms, and a modern conference and events space. The video also indicates where the SWML will be located on the first floor.
Sian Williams, Head of Cultural Collections Engagement and Curation at Swansea University, commented: “We are very excited about the South Wales Miners’ Library taking its place in Y Storfa, in heart of the city. We are looking forward to welcoming new visitors as well as those who already use and enjoy our unique collection.”
Established in October 1973, the SWML contains an internationally significant research collection documenting South Wales’ industrial past. Its holdings include materials from over 60 miners’ institutes and welfare halls across the coalfield area. The collection features pamphlets, posters, oral histories, and what is considered Wales’ largest collection of banners.
Y Storfa will also house council-run services such as a contact centre, Housing Options, revenues and benefits offices, lifelong learning programs, and the West Glamorgan Archive Service. Careers Wales and Citizens Advice will also be based there.
Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, said: "Y Storfa will be a place where people can come together - to learn, access important services, or take part in community life in a modern and welcoming space. The new video shows the scale of what's to come.”
He added: "Swansea city centre needs more footfall to support its existing traders and help attract new shops and other businesses in future. This is why a £1bn regeneration programme is ongoing, with schemes such as Y Storfa set to combine with many others to attract more people there.”
The development is situated near car parks as well as public transport links. An official opening date for Y Storfa is expected to be announced soon.