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Work is set to start on the second and final stage of a £340,000 roof refurbishment scheme at Barrow Library, on June 29th.

Around 3,000 books and shelving will be shifted in preparation for the work on the east wing, which is expected to last for at least 12 weeks. Prior to that it will take a further two weeks for scaffolding to be erected around the Listed Building, which is one of the town’s best known landmarks.

The library will remain open throughout the works and disruption to the public will be kept to a minimum.

The work is necessary after a survey revealed that the whole of the roof of the Ramsden Square building needed replacement.

The first stage, fixing the roof of the west wing, was carried out in 2008 at a cost of £105,000. Water had been leaking into the meeting room and workroom on the first floor and plaster, coming away from the walls, provided further evidence that repairs were needed.

Area Library Manager Bernadette Main said:

"This is an investment in a public building that evokes a lot of civic pride in the town. It is one of Barrow’s most recognisable buildings. It has been a big job, which is why it has had to be done in two stages."

A scaffolding walkway will be provided outside the main entrance and inside the library the central area will be partitioned off and books relocated. There will be one or two days when customers have to use the Duke Street entrance, but there will be plenty of signs to guide them.

There will be a restricted service on Friday, June 19th, while the books and shelves are moved, but customers can still return books and collect reserved items. There will be no access to the main book stock, but DVDs, computers and children’s and teen areas will be available.

Bernadette said: "We apologise for the inconvenience, but have to consider the health and safety of customers and staff." Normal service resumes on Saturday, June 20th.

Stage two of the work is costing £235,000 and is being undertaken in partnership by Cumbria County Council Property Unit and Capita Symonds.

ENDS

Media enquiries to Gareth Cosslett, News Manager on 01228 226332