Newark Library reopening delayed due to vandalism

Recent vandalism at a library means it will have to remain closed longer than planned.

Newark Library closed its doors on January 17 for essential planned maintenance work to its heating and cooling systems and was set to reopen on Monday, June 3 — but due to damage to the building it is no longer able to be reopened on that date.

All work was on schedule until the library was the subject of vandalism, which caused five high-level roof windows to be smashed and additional damage to the building over the weekend of April 27 to 29.

Due to the closure for works at the time no members of the public or staff were inside the library at the time of the incident, which was also believed to have taken place overnight.

It was described at the time, by cabinet member for communities and public health at Nottinghamshire County Council, Scott Carlton, as a “senseless act of destruction”.

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 of 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 4pm on Saturday.

On Saturdays, from 10am to 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.