IT has traditionally been a place of “hush” – but now York’s Central Library is applying for a premises licence as a revamp of the building nears completion.

The library, in Museum Street, to be known in future as an Explore Library And Learning Centre, wants permission for the provision of regulated entertainment including plays, films, live music, recorded music, dance and the sale or supply of alcohol.

But library bosses said there were no plans to let readers booze as they browse through their books.

Ms Williams, head of Libraries and Heritage at City of York Council, said there were no plans to sell alcohol in the new library café but, when “author events” were hosted, it would be good to be able to offer a glass of wine to people.

She said the application had been made so a variety of performances, from dance to music, could be hosted. She revealed the application covered both the building and also a lawn to the side of the library. “The outside is a much underused space that has lots of potential for events and/or activities,” she said.

Anyone wanting to make a representation about the proposal should write to City of York Council licensing services at 9 St Leonard’s Place, by no later than May 24.

The revamped library is set to re-open its doors later this month following a £540,000 project which will see it stock 20,000 extra books, learning rooms, a quiet room, a café, changing facilities and an ICT learning base.

Self-service issuing machines have been installed which will free-up staff to allow them to spend more time with visitors.

The project follows on from the introduction of Explore Centres at Acomb and New Earswick, which have seen large increases in visitor numbers following similar refurbishments.