LATEST NEWS: Bradford councillor wants schools to use library after six-figure refurbishment

MAJOR refurbishments are to take place at Wibsey Library to bring much-needed improvements to the building’s appearance and facilities.

The library was closed as an emergency in February due to issues with the safety of the floor and a review was carried out into the works required. 

But as a result of the review, it was decided by Bradford Council that the building needed extensive work and the reopening of the library, initially anticipated for June will now need to be put back to August 2022.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Portfolio Holder for Healthy People and Places, said: “This full refurbishment goes much further than just replacing the damaged floor and will result in a much brighter, modern library that is fit for purpose as a hub serving communities in the south of the district.

“It will also be more energy-efficient and welcoming for customers including those with limited mobility. 

“It will also make the layout of the library more flexible, allowing more services, activities and events, as well as an exciting new children’s area and improved book display.”

The full refurbishment is expected to cost around £150,000 and will include new flooring, redecoration, a new heating system, new LED lighting and a full rewire, new shelving and furniture, as well as a new entranceway with automatic opening doors. 

Councillor Ralph Berry (Lab, Wibsey) added: “I welcome the commencement of works to refinish and improve Wibsey library which has now begun. 

"The library, a former chapel, is an old building with some structural issues that have been found which are being repaired. The library has not had this level of investment in many years.

“We are keen to see this work carried out as soon as possible as the library is at the heart of the community and we have plans to make far greater use of it in the future.”

Subject to the results of the current local survey, due to close on June 3, a new publicly accessible toilet for disabled customers, and two meeting rooms, one with a small kitchenette have also been added to the works. 

Managers are now exploring options for extending the temporary library services available which are currently available at Wyke Library or by registering with the Home Library Service. 

If local residents have any further suggestions for an interim service please get in touch with the Library Service.