A LIBRARY on Bradford's biggest estate has reopened after almost three years - but councillors believe its new hours are too short.

Holme Wood library has been shut since the start of the pandemic back in 2020.

The new library has been relocated within the TFD Centre on Broadstone Way.

Tong Ward councillor Matt Edwards (Greens) said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Holme Wood Library has finally reopened.

"The refurbished library is a great place for people to meet others, access computers and borrow books.

“We are getting closer to re-establishing the TFD Centre as a real community hub in the heart of Holme Wood."

Initially, it will be open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm and run by volunteers.

However, Green councillors have raised concerns about the short opening hours.

Bradford Council says it is aware of the current "insufficient" opening hours.

Cllr Edwards added: “Four hours a day, three days a week is not good enough really. Other libraries across Bradford are open for much longer.

"We have already had people contact us wanting to see the library open after school for kids and that is something we are working on.” 

Tong Ward Councillors have asked the Council to use leftover Government funding as part of Well Bradford which was allocated to Holme Wood to fund a new Community Development Officer role.

Cllr Celia Hickson said: “Before Bradford Council cut staffing at the library this was used by nearly a thousand people a week.

"It is more than just a place to get books, it is a vital community hub where people can access a whole host of council services.

“Communities like Holme Wood really need places like this and I am glad that we, as Tong Ward councillors, have been able to secure funding for a new job, which will be managed by the Sutton Centre, to help make it easier for the community to access the new facilities in the library and the TFD.”

A Bradford Council spokesperson said: “We are aware that the current opening times at Holme Wood Library are insufficient for the local community needs and are actively working with local partners to increase volunteer take-up.

“Although the library is closed to the general public, other services including the Youth Service, Early Years and Out Loud Group (creative education group for young people) will be using the space for to work with families, groups and individuals.”