Kettering Library to re-open soon as major building project starts

A date for the re-opening of Kettering Library will be announced soon with users able to access the current facility after a change of heart by council chiefs.

The library and its services were to be relocated within the town but a rethink has meant the library will carry on in a 'reduced capacity'.

In May customers were given just four days notice after it had been announced that the library was to close for up to a year.

But a spokesman for North Northamptonshire Council has now confirmed: “It is intended that the library service will continue to run from the Kettering site while work is taking place on the GLaM project but at a reduced capacity to allow for construction works.

“The safety of staff and customer is paramount and as such we are finalising arrangements on how this will work, with details due to be released shortly.”

Work has begun on Kettering s £3.9m GLaM (Gallery Library and Museum) project with the Alfred East Art Gallery already emptied of its 900-piece art treasures.

Library users had previously been advised to use the community-run libraries in Burton Latimer, Rothwell and Desborough.

The project, which will provide the community with new and upgraded facilities, and a flexible events and workshop space, was given planning approval in January this year.

Details have yet to be finalised, but customers may find the services reduced for the quick pick book stock, large print and audio books, children’s stock, the annual summer reading challenge, reservations for titles brought in from other libraries, information, referrals, and enquiries, bus passes and blue badge advice and referrals.

The council spokesman added: "Customers are assured that no overdue charges will be imposed on any items that cannot be returned to Kettering Library."