Calls made for "clear alternative" when Lancaster Library shuts for months

Residents have called for essential services to be maintained when Lancaster Library closes for renovations.

Catryn Thomas, a regular library user and parent, said she is looking at funding options for running an alternative space for families when the library shuts for a major revamp next month, with works due to last until spring 2027.

Extensive work will be carried out at the library on Market Square to protect the future of the Grade II listed building and ensure residents can continue to use its services for years to come.

Lancashire County Council said that a multi-agency group is working together to "explore options to minimise disruption for library users and provide alternative access to services such as computers and services for vulnerable residents".

But County Councillor Paul Stubbins, who represents Lancaster East, has called for a clear plan on how library services will be delivered throughout the period of closure.

"This is not simply about the temporary closure of a building, Lancaster Library is one of the city's most important public spaces and provides services that many residents rely on every day," said County Councillor Stubbins, a Green councillor.

"People need access to books, computers, printing facilities, digital support, children's learning activities and somewhere warm, safe and welcoming during the winter months. Many residents, particularly older people and those without access to transport, cannot simply travel elsewhere.

"With the closure now only weeks away, residents deserve reassurance that a suitable temporary city centre facility will be available and that essential library services will not be lost. I'm pleased that there is now a multi-agency group meeting to discuss options, but it is vital that a clear plan is made soon that takes into account all of the essential needs met by the library.

"The key question is simply how will the full library service be maintained while the building is closed? Residents deserve a clear answer before the doors shut."

Lancaster Library

County Councillor Stubbins said he'd written to the Chief Executive of Lancashire County Council "expressing concern that, beyond some children's activities and a mobile library presence at White Cross, there appears to be no clear alternative for many of the services currently provided in the city centre".

Catryn Thomas said: "The library is the only free, safe and accessible space to bring young children and babies in the city centre - and so it is a vital resource that can't simply be replaced by moving scheduled child-focused sessions to the White Cross. 

"The library provides us with an open and welcoming place to go to combat parental isolation and overwhelm, without having to make scheduled playgroups (which are largely term-time only) or be able to afford paid baby classes.

"It's also a breastfeeding friendly place that doesn't require you to buy a coffee in order to change a nappy or sit to feed your child somewhere warm and dry. For those with toddlers, it is a child-friendly place for them to roam and play - local cafes simply can't offer this safely.

"I am currently being supported by the Green city councillors to pursue community funding options for running an alternative space aimed at families during the closure period. I hope that there will be a clear response from the council aboout how it will support all the community groups that rely on the library space."

Built in 1932, the building was historically used as a coaching house, police station and fire station, before becoming a library.

Essential repairs are needed to repair the roof and leaks in the building. Lancashire County Council said that without this work, the long-term use of the building as a library would be at risk.

The building will close to the public on Tuesday, August 11, with work expected to be completed by spring 2027.

County Councillor Ella Worthington, a Reform UK councillor and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride, said:  "We understand how important Lancaster Central library is to local residents.

"These essential restoration works will protect and preserve this historic building for future generations, but for everyone's safety the building must close while the work is carried out.

"A multi-agency group, which includes representatives from the county council, Lancaster City Council, community organisations, emergency services, health partners and businesses continue to work together to explore options to minimise disruption for library users and provide alternative access to services such as computers and services for vulnerable residents. Further updates will be shared once available.

"A weekly mobile library service will operate from White Cross Business Park, nearby libraries remain available and residents can continue to access our digital library services 24/7.

"We are also working closely with other organisations to support community groups affected by the closure and help them relocate temporarily to alternative venues.

"I would like to thank Lancaster City Council, Lancaster District CVS, Lancaster BID and all our other partners for working together to ensure support is in place throughout this period."

Days and times for the weekly mobile library will be confirmed, said the county council.

Baby Bounce and Rhyme sessions will continue there every Wednesday, with additional sessions available if there is demand.

Residents can also access nearby libraries in Morecambe, Heysham, Bolton-le-Sands, Carnforth, Halton and Silverdale.

Morecambe Library will extend its opening hours during the closure.

Free digital library services, including books, magazines and online resources, remain available seven days a week.

The council said community groups have been offered alternative accommodation through Lancaster BID and the Storey Gallery, with further support available through communities@lancashire.gov.uk and that Lancaster District CVS has also offered printing facilities during the closure.

Read more: Lancaster library to close next month for major restoration works - Beyond Radio