The future of a South Cumbrian library remains undecided after extensive electrical issues were discovered in the building.
Further investigations into Ulverston’s Library building on King’s Road have revealed that issues with the electrics are extensive and difficult to fix.
While it has now been thoroughly checked and made safe, it still has no power available, so it is not able to be used by the service.
Westmorland and Furness Council, which is responsible for the library, said it is now exploring all options for cost-effective and long-term solutions to provide library services in the town.
Detailed repair cost estimates for the building are still being established, but the council said would likely require a full re-wire and subsequent refurbishment of the whole building.
Costs are expected to be significant as the work would also include updating the heating systems and interior changes.
Councillor Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for Highways and Assets, said: “Options that will be looked at will include the full repair and refurbishment of the existing library building on King’s Road, as well as options to re-locate to alternative premises or co-locate within other facilities in town.
“The council is, however, keen to stress that we are committed to delivering a library service befitting a town of Ulverston’s importance. Ulverston is one of our most important libraries and as part of the options work we will also be looking at any opportunities to enhance and expand its library offer.
“As the library is a statutory function, we’re required to consult on any changes, including any relocation of the library, so the local community will have the opportunity to comment on proposals and public views will be taken into account as part of the process.’’
A temporary pop-up library will remain in place in Ante Room at The Coro, offering the following services:
- A library reception desk for information and support for customers
- A drop-off point for returning books
- A small selection of books available for borrowing
- A limited number of public computers/desks/printers
- The Ante Room library offer – which is fully accessible on the ground floor of The Coro – will initially operate at the following times, in line with The Coro’s existing reception hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30am-12.30pm.
Further library provision in the nearby Ulverston Indoor Market to include more stock for borrowing as well as space for community groups, meetings and events, is nearing completion and the council said it is hoping to open by the end of the month.
Councillor Thornton added: We appreciate that there is considerable interest in the future of the library and library services in Ulverston, and we hope that this update provides some clarity and reassurance that the council is following a process to achieve the very best outcome for the town.
“However, that process and the issues being addressed are complex and require careful consideration, to achieve the best long-term outcomes for the library service, and best long-term value, for the community of Ulverston.’’
Full library services can be accessed at nearby libraries at Grange and Barrow, alongside Library Links in Dalton and Broughton-in-Furness.
A digital library services is also on offer at https://www.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/libraries-and-archives/cumbria-libraries/cumbria-libraries-online-catalogues
