Refurbishment work set to begin at Rawtenstall Library

The work will be carried out in two phases and will also include the reinstatement of several original features that have been lost over time.

The first phase is due to begin this week, and will focus on repairs to the roof and works to the upper floors. During this period, the main lending library on the ground floor will remain open, although some areas, including the community history service, will be temporarily unavailable.

The second phase is expected to begin in July and will involve significant work to the ground floor, including the careful restoration of the original parquet flooring.

Rawtenstall Library is a Grade II listed Carnegie library, built in the early 20th century with funding from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie libraries were founded on the principle of providing free access to books, learning and information for local communities, and many were designed with distinctive architectural features reflecting their civic importance.

As the building is listed, the original parquet flooring must be carefully removed, treated and reinstated as part of the refurbishment. This specialist process is complex and time‑intensive.

Due to the scale and specialist nature of the work, the library will need to close completely for up to 14 weeks while this phase is carried out.

Customers will be kept informed throughout the project, including ahead of any full closure, and alternative library provision will be signposted during this time.

Georgina Roby, Head of Cultural Services at Lancashire County Council, said:

“The refurbishment of Rawtenstall Library is an important opportunity to protect the building’s future and preserve the character and features that make it so special.

“As a Grade II‑listed Carnegie library, this work requires a very careful approach to protect the historic fabric of the building.

“Taking the time to do the work properly will help preserve the library’s unique character and ensure it can continue to serve the community, with access to a wide range of resources and activities, for many years to come.”

Essential building works are also due to take place at Chorley Library, starting in May, focused primarily on roof repairs to address issues caused by water ingress.

The work will help prevent future closures and allow the library to operate more reliably in the long term. During the works, services will operate from a reduced space within the building, with lift access available.

For more information and to find your nearest library, visit: Find a library - Lancashire County Council