Parents and councillors want safe and accessible space for families during Lancaster library closure
Parents and Green councillors are pursuing community funding options for running an alternative space for families during the planned eight month closure of Lancaster library.
County Councillor Paul Stubbins has called on Lancashire County Council to urgently confirm how essential library services will be maintained during the closure.
With closure due to begin in just two weeks, residents still do not know where many key services will be provided while roofing works take place.
Green County Councillor Paul Stubbins said: “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."
“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."
Many local parents have also expressed great concern about the impact the closure will have on young families, and parental mental health.
Catryn Thomas, a regular library user and parent, 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 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.”
County Councillor Ella Worthington, 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.