The new library utilises existing levels to form a split-level interior, ensuring a well supervised study and reference area, IT room, careers advice and audio/visual facilities. The latest modern technology is combined witihin a sensitively detailed building sited among the grand complex of listed buildings. The front feature window to the main library area incorporates a refurbished medieval stained glass panel. Flanked by the words SEMPER LEGIT (he was always reading), it shows St. Bede on his death-bed at Jarrow in 735AD, dictating the final part of his translation of the Gospel of St. John.