Newark Library Reopening Delayed

Newark Library closed its doors on Wednesday 17 January 2024 for essential planned maintenance work to its heating and cooling systems and was set to reopen on Monday 3 June. All work was on schedule until the library was subjected to vandalism, causing damage to five high level roof windows and additional damage to the building over the weekend of 27-29 April 2024.

Councillor Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management at Nottinghamshire County council, said:

“Initially we thought that the damage would not affect the reopening date, however following a full assessment, we now know that it will.

On closer inspection the amount of internal water damage at the library was greater than we first expected. Unfortunately, the lead time for this extra work to be carried out will set us back and we will let everyone know as soon as possible when we are able to reopen.

I’d like to thank residents for their patience as we work to resolve and repair the damage. We can’t wait to welcome valued and new library members back through the library doors.”

During the extended closure, library members can continue to use any library throughout Nottinghamshire – the nearest library being Balderton Library on Main Street, Balderton, Newark, NG24 3NP.  Balderton Library provides access to public computers, stocks a full range of books, and will keep the extended opening hours: Monday – Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 9am-4pm. 

On Saturdays, 10am-3pm, the Inspire Centre at Newark’s Buttermarket will also continue to host regular library activities including Rattle, Rhyme and Roll sessions, children’s story times, Lego and Games clubs for families, as well as Scrabble sessions, Crafty Natters and Places of Welcome for adults. 

For updates to news of reopening, keep an eye on the service disruption webpage.