AS a treasured institution, Bankies have been flocking to Clydebank Library for more than a century.

Now people are being asked to write the latest chapter in the history of the building as part of an interactive consultation process — with a twist.

Spearheading the consultation is Mitch Miller, an illustrator who creates pieces of artwork called dialectograms. The documents, which are often several square feet in size, feature a plan of the site in question containing drawings, images and anecdotes relating to the area.

“A dialectogram is a cross between a diagram and a comic,” Mitch told the Post.

“They are documents which reveal the social fabric of a place.

“Several layers of time exist in each one so it refers to what has happened in the past and what might happen in the future.” The innovative consultation is funded by the Public Library Improvement Fund, through money allocated by the Scottish Government.

Since the summer, it has seen Mitch speaking to a wide variety of users and non users of the library including members of the public, primary and secondary school children as well as the Clydebank History Society.

No stranger to the creative process, Mitch previously created dialectograms on Glasgow’s Red Road flats and on the effect of regeneration on the city prior to the Commonwealth Games.

His latest project is seeing him gathering wide-ranging feedback on future hopes for the site in addition to fundamental improvements to heating, lighting and disabled access.

John Rushton, section head of libraries and information services with West Dunbartonshire Council, said: “We are pleased to be working with Mitch and exploring the options for the future of Clydebank Library in this way.

“As Clydebank is regenerated and the development at Queens Quay starts to take shape, there will be a huge influx of people.

“The town will also be centred closer to the river, so the library will be part of a cultural hub.

“We want to have a library that is fit for purpose in the 21st century.” Mr Rushton continued: “It’s not just about providing books, it’s about being in a safe, welcoming environment where anyone can come to.

“The documents Mitch is creating will hopefully give designers a feel for what local people want from their library.” Once the project is complete, the dialectograms will be displayed in the refurbished library for users to enjoy.

Mitch added: “It’s a fascinating process. I have discovered so much about the history of Clydebank and its library.

“One of the main things that struck me is the resilence of the town and the people, which is amazing. I have developed a lot of respect for Clydebank people during my research.

“If we get it right, the library could become a jewel in the crown for Clydebank.” Mitch Miller spent time at Clyde Shopping Centre on November 3 between 11am and 3pm. He chatted to residents about Clydebank and the library, offering them a free drawing in return.

The consultation process is expected to last until the end of the year. More information is available by emailing: info@cblibrary.co.uk.