“The new library is an investment in people and in the future of Česká Třebová. The former premises had long ceased to support the development of services we now expect from a modern public institution. They lacked step-free access and sufficient space for the library collection, study areas and events. I am therefore delighted that we have found a new purpose for the former welding school site and transformed it into a modern public space that will serve all generations,” said Zdeněk Řehák, Mayor of Česká Třebová.

The project was developed with the involvement of architect Martin Hájek of ATELIER HÁJEK, OPTIMA spol. s r.o., which prepared the design documentation, and a number of other specialists. The town also secured funding from the Integrated Regional Operational Programme. The total investment, including the construction works, interior fit-out and related costs, amounted to nearly CZK 140 million, of which grants accounted for CZK 82 million.

“The library is one of several significant projects that have been transforming Česká Třebová in recent years. Alongside its construction, work was carried out on the new Social Services Centre building, representing an investment of approximately CZK 280 million and scheduled to open this October. We are also preparing the refurbishment of the indoor swimming pool and the regeneration of Nové náměstí. Design documentation for both projects is currently being developed,” added Mayor Řehák.

From Library to Community Hub

Public library services have a tradition in Česká Třebová spanning more than 160 years. Their origins date back to 1863, when the town’s Reading Society established its own library. Today’s library is far more than a place to borrow books. It works closely with children, schools, teenagers, adults and older residents, offering dozens of educational and cultural programmes.

“The opening of the new building marks a major milestone for our library. In 2025, we had 2,459 registered members, including 808 children under the age of 15, and recorded more than 143,000 visits, including online services. Our collection comprises approximately 100,000 items, and around 80,000 books have been relocated to the new building,” said Gabriela Boháčková, Director of the Česká Třebová Municipal Library.

The new library features dedicated areas for children and young people, an extensive adult section, a reading room, a classroom, a creative workshop and a multifunctional hall with a capacity of around 60 people. The venue will host author talks, lectures, discussions, film screenings, educational courses, book clubs and community events. The creative workshop will also provide facilities for 3D printing, robotics, programming and a range of technology-based and craft workshops.

“The greatest change is not simply the amount of space available, but the quality of that space. Visitors can come not only to borrow a book, but also to read, study, work, create and connect with others. Importantly, different activities will now be able to take place simultaneously alongside the library’s day-to-day operations, which was not possible in the former premises,” emphasised Gabriela Boháčková.

Delivering the Project Under Challenging Conditions

VCES served as the main contractor for the construction works. Delivery began in June 2024 and was completed in December 2025. The project included the refurbishment of the original four-storey building and the construction of a new two-storey extension connected to the existing structure on both levels.

“This project was particularly demanding due to its complexity and the spatial constraints of the construction site. We had to coordinate the refurbishment of the original building with the construction of the new extension while working in an area with very limited storage capacity. Materials therefore had to be delivered in stages, and each phase of construction carefully planned. At the same time, access to the main railway station had to remain unobstructed, placing significant demands on the project’s logistics. Our ability to respond continuously to these constraints and find practical solutions was essential to the successful completion of the project,” explained Martin Minařík, Deputy Commercial Director of VCES a.s.

“The project also includes a rooftop photovoltaic power plant, which will cover part of the library’s electricity consumption. This feature demonstrates that, alongside functionality, we also focused on energy efficiency and long-term operational costs throughout the delivery of the scheme,” concluded Minařík.

The new building is fully accessible and equipped with modern technologies, including RFID systems, self-service borrowing facilities, Wi-Fi connectivity and a collection locker. Both a passenger lift and a dedicated goods lift for transporting books are available within the building. The library’s main branch has now relocated to Pražského Street, while the Parník branch will remain in operation.

With the completion of the project, Česká Třebová has gained not only a new library, but also a modern public space that brings together books, learning, culture, technology and community life.