Les Semaines Galloises

Cardiff’s Old Library is believed to be one of several locations in the city being considered by Cardiff council for a new Welsh language centre.

Welsh language magazine Golwg reported that the Grade II listed building would house the new facility, but the council has stated that it is continuing to “explore options”.

The magazine reported that the new centre would contain conference rooms and a bookshop, along with a cafe bar serving Welsh produce.

A Cardiff council spokesman said: “The council continues to explore options on establishing a Welsh language centre for our capital that celebrates and facilitates Welsh as a living language for both residents and visitors to Cardiff.”

He added: “We are working with a wide range of partners to ensure their requirements are met and have submitted an application for Welsh Government funding for 2015 /16. If successful in attracting external funding, the centre could open as early as later this year.”

A Welsh Governmentspokesman confirmed that the assessment process for bids is currently under way and an announcement on successful applications will take place soon.

The Old Library currently houses the Cardiff Story Museum, which exhibits the history of the city.

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The museum opened in April 2011 and brings together a collection of 3,000 artefacts – many donated from residents and communities across the city.

Language initiative Menter Iaith Caerdydd, which is involved in running The Old Library, has confirmed that it will not provide funding for the project.

A spokeswoman said: “Cardiff council are working with various Welsh language establishments and partners with a view to develop a centre in the city, but no location has been confirmed as yet.” The building was opened in May 1882 by the Lord Mayor of Cardiff Alfred Thomas as the Cardiff Free Library, Museum and Schools for Science and Art.

It was further extended 14 years later and was officially re-opened as the Central Library by the Prince of Wales in July 1896.