Ageing library to close for 17 weeks for major refurbishment

A Calderdale library will be closed for 17 weeks as it undergoes major refurbishment work to repair the ageing building and update facilities.

Sowerby Bridge Library is over 100 years old and the building suffers from a number of issues related to its age, including dry rot and problems with the ageing heating system.

From Monday June 5, major refurbishment works will be taking place, including repairs to the roof, the installation of a new boiler system, plus upgrades to the library space with decoration and new carpeting.

The library will have to close from Monday 5 June for around 17 weeks.

Calderdale Council’s Head of Neighbourhoods, Andrew Pitts, said: “We’re passionate about our libraries and the important place they have in our towns and villages.

“To ensure that Sowerby Bridge Library continues to be at the heart of the local community, we’re investing in the future of the building by making vital repairs and improvements.

“We apologise for any inconvenience the resulting closure may cause, but alternative arrangements, such as extended opening hours at the nearby King Cross Library, will be in place throughout the works.”

As work is carried out the nearest library at King Cross will be open for additional hours.

Those unable to visit an alternative library will be offered access to the Home Library Service;

Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool will also be accepting returned books which the Library Service will collect twice weekly.

Regular users of the library have also been informed of the closure, and groups who currently use the library, such as the Readers, Poetry and Writers Groups will be temporarily relocated to King Cross Library.