Ryde Library is preparing for a significant refurbishment following a successful bid for funding from Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund.
The improvements will focus on upgrading the children’s library and installing an accessible toilet to enhance facilities for visitors.
Work begins in late February
Work is set to commence on Monday 24th February, with completion expected by the end of March.
The main library will remain open for most of the refurbishment period, although a temporary closure will take place from Thursday 20th February, to Saturday 22nd February. This will allow staff to relocate books from the affected areas.
Revised opening hours
From Monday 24th February, the library will operate with slightly reduced hours, closing for an hour at lunchtime.
The revised opening times will be:
- Monday: 9am – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 5pm
- Tuesday: 9am – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 5pm
- Wednesday: 9am – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 5pm
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 9am – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 5pm
- Saturday: 9am – 12 noon
Temporary changes to services
During the refurbishment, the Help Centre, Citizens Advice Bureau, and Information Support Service will continue to operate within the library’s adjusted hours.
Children’s books will be relocated within the main library. However, space limitations mean that activities such as Rhyme Time and adult group sessions will be temporarily suspended.
Public computers, printing, and photocopying services will remain available throughout the works.
Once the refurbishment is complete in late March, the library will close briefly to restore books to their original locations.
Future improvements at Cowes Library
Cowes Library is also set to benefit from the Libraries Improvement Fund, with work expected to begin in mid-March. Further details on this project will be announced in due course.
For more information about the library’s online services, visit the Isle of Wight Council libraries website.
