Edging out fierce competition, the library has been named as a finalist in the Civic Project category alongside the Shipman Youth Zone by Rivington Street Studio, Sidcup Storyteller by DRDH Architects and Tower Hamlets Town Hall by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris.

In total, more than 120 projects have been shortlisted across 20 categories as part of the annual showcase of the very best built projects in the UK.

Transforming an empty High Street retail space, the four-story library blends modern design with community-focused amenities and forms the heart of the Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub – a £7 million investment by Renfrewshire Council which is part of an ongoing drive to regenerate Paisley and give people new reasons to visit the town centre.

Operated by local culture and leisure trust OneRen, the facility features a welcoming reception, a vibrant children’s library, and a storytelling area, as well as a unique play structure, complete with a climbing wall and slide, co-designed by renowned Scottish artist Claire Barclay.

The upper floors house a variety of community spaces, including an outdoor terrace, study areas for young adults, and multipurpose rooms for events, such as the Paisley Book Festival, author talks, Bookbug sessions for families, and storytelling workshops.

Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, Renfrewshire Council’s cultural spokesperson and chair of OneRen, said: “The new Paisley Central Library is part of a sustained investment by the Council in culture as we recognise the benefits that this can bring to people now and in generations to come.

“With Paisley Central Library, we have created a modern, inviting facility that is giving people in Renfrewshire the opportunity to discover, or rediscover, a love for reading and learning – and you can’t underestimate how important that is for people or all ages.

“It’s fantastic that the project has been recognised in such a prestigious set of awards and it is testament to the work that everyone involved in the project has put in. I just hope we’re successful on the night as the team deserve all the accolades coming their way.”

The library has already been recognised this year winning ESG Refurbishment of the Year at the Scottish Property Awards and the Physical category at the EDGE Awards, as well as taking home silver in the Regeneration Category at the Scottish Design Awards.

Ewan Imrie, architect & director at Collective Architecture, added: “Being shortlisted for the AJ Architecture Awards, which celebrates the best Civic Projects across the UK, is a fantastic achievement.

“It reflects the vision of our client and the dedication of our team. We hope this building will not only provide a vibrant public space on Paisley High Street but also spark further regeneration in the area.”

The building was delivered in partnership with hub West Scotland.

Iain Marley, hub West’s CEO, said: “We are thrilled to see Paisley Central Library recognised for its contribution to the town’s regeneration.

“This success stems from the client’s ambition and fantastic collaboration between our team, Renfrewshire Council, and our partners, all of whom worked tirelessly to bring this project to life.

“The redevelopment presented challenges but the positive feedback from both library staff and the local community has made it more than worthwhile.”

The winners of the 20 categories, plus the three editorial-chosen awards, will be announced on 3 December 2024.