Cllr Mike Smith at library closed for repairs
West Norwood Library & Nettlefold Halls remain closed since June 2011 as a consequence of damage from vandalism and theft. When repairs started, asbestos was found and this caused a long delay. The asbestos has now been removed but the building is still in a very poor condition and will take a lot of money to fix. A condition survey is being undertaken to identify what further work is needed. The survey should be completed during January 2012 and it is not possible to estimate an re-opening date for the West Norwood Library and Nettlefold Halls until this survey is done. In the meantime the building is secured to reduce the risk of further vandalism.
Cllr Nosegbe, chair of the Lambeth Libraries Commission, says “There will be a fully functioning library in West Norwood. Our libraries are essential, they are open to all and benefit everyone and we are working with the community to make sure a full library service is back serving our residents as soon as possible. The temporary library service currently available at the Lambeth Resource Centre is unsatisfactory. We want to deliver more for Norwood and we are looking at alternative sites, like the Old Library, for a better library service in the meantime. “
At a meeting in November with local residents there were lots of constructive ideas on what people wanted in their future local library in West Norwood. A consultation process about the future of the building is underway and the council is seeking the views of the community, residents, library users and members of the Friends groups.
The Libraries Commission looked at the future of Lambeth’s library service bearing in mind the council has much less money to spend. For details of the work of the Library Commission see http://www.lambeth.gov.uk/Services/CouncilDemocracy/MakingADifference/LibrariesCommission.htm
To get involved in the future of all of Lambeth’s libraries contact the council by emailing LibrariesHaveYourSay@lambeth.gov.uk , text 07772 103 628 or phone 0800 013 1497 or 020 7926 6397.
The Friends of West Norwood Library welcome new members – email FWNL@hotmail.co.uk or see them on facebook.
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