Rawtenstall Library to close for major refurbishment works

Rawtenstall Library will shut from Wednesday, June 24, to allow work to begin on the ground floor of the Grade II-listed Carnegie building, including the careful restoration of original parquet flooring.

This next phase follows the ongoing work to the roof and upper floors.

Councillor Ella Worthington, cabinet member for Civic Pride, said: "The refurbishment of Rawtenstall Library is progressing well, and this next phase is an important step in restoring key features of the building and securing its future.

"We recognise that a temporary closure will be inconvenient for some customers, and we would like to thank people for their patience while this work is carried out.

"We’ve put a range of alternative options in place to make sure people can continue to access library services locally."

Due to the scale and complexity of the renovations, the library is expected to remain closed for up to 14 weeks and is likely to reopen in the autumn, subject to progress on site.

During the closure, library users are encouraged to make use of Haslingden, Bacup and Whitworth libraries.

Lancashire County Council’s mobile library service will also be available to support residents who are unable to travel to other branches.

A temporary outreach service will be offered from the Rawtenstall Family Hub and The Zone at the Old Fire Station on Burnley Road.

From Friday, June 26, library users will be able to borrow a selection of books, collect reservations, return and renew items, join the library, and take part in regular activities and events at the outreach locations.

Sessions will run on Tuesdays from 9am to 1pm (including Storytime and Writing Group), Fridays from 9am to 5pm (including Baby Bounce and Knit and Natter), and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm (including children’s activities).

All items currently on loan from Rawtenstall Library will be automatically extended until later in the year, and no fines will be issued during the closure.

Customers can continue to use other Lancashire libraries or access online library services.

Updates about the closure will be available online and in the library branch, where QR codes and additional information will be provided for customers.

Rawtenstall Library is a Grade II listed Carnegie library.

For more information and to find your nearest library, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries.

Details about the mobile library service, including routes and timetables, are available on the Lancashire County Council website.