The presenter and author was guest of honour at a special morning of literary-inspired events attended by students at Newmarket, local primary schools and dignitaries.
She gave an inspiring talk to pupils and spoke to them about their love of reading before unveiling a plaque to open the new facility.
Clare said: “I was delighted to open this new library at Newmarket Academy. It is impressive to have some 20,000 books but there is also some fantastic natural light, break-out areas and spaces to read in private.”
Designed by architects Wincer Kievenaar and built by SEH French, the new library has a structurally exposed steel frame with 15 columns which have been coated and fire protected in a gold paint to captivate students and provide an attractive beacon for learning at the heart of the academy. To keep the frame rigid and robust, Wincer Kievenaar appointed Ipswich-based Superstructures to specially design the cross bracing of the steel frame, to give the building enhanced structural stability.
Nick Froy, headteacher of Newmarket Academy, said he was delighted and thrilled to welcome the special guest. He said: “This library is an incredible community asset for our students as well as local primary schools. It wouldn’t have been possible without the generous donation from Godolphin, who have been such strong supporters of the Academy and local education.
Picture shows Clare Balding with students in the new library at Newmarket Academy
