The Sherborne Library building is closed during the improvement and safety works. Picture: Dorset Council

Update on Sherborne Library after absestos find closed building

Paul JonesApril 9, 20260 Comment0

BOOK lovers are being reassured Sherborne Library remains open despite work on the building – at a new temporary home.

Dorset Council said while the library building itself remains closed for “essential building work and safety checks” – including the removal of asbestos – people can still borrow and return items, reserve stock, and get support and advice from library staff.

However, services are limited at the temporary library facility – in the lobby at Digby Hall, and on Saturdays in the Sherborne Library foyer – with public computers, printing and photocopying not available.

“We know this has taken far longer than anyone wanted,” a council spokesperson said, with work paused as schedules and plans are drawn up.

“People have been asking for clear dates and regular updates, and it is frustrating when we cannot yet give a firm reopening date.

“Visitors should be assured that the asbestos identified in the building was contained and has never posed a risk to people using the library.

“It now needs to be removed as part of the current programme of refurbishment and safety improvements.”

The council said it is working with its Assets and Property and Building Control teams, specialist contractors, and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service during the work to ensure work meets building rules and fire safety standards.

“A new property surveyor is now leading the project and has been reviewing what the building needs so it can reopen safely,” the spokesperson went on.

“This careful review has added time, but it is there to make sure the work is done properly and the building is safe for staff, customers and visitors.

“Work has paused while further checks and plans are completed in three areas: asbestos, parts of the building that need to be checked and made sound, and fire safety work linked to that.

“Plans for the next stage of work are being prepared and agreed with the relevant bodies.”

The council said visitors could expect a “safer, updated library building” once the work is finished.

Cllr Richard Biggs, deputy leader and Cabinet member for property & assets and economic growth, said: “I know people in Sherborne are fed up with the long wait. The most important point is that the library service is still here in the town.

“We are pushing hard to sort the issues holding up the building work, but we will not cut corners on safety. Our aim is to reopen a library building that is safe, updated and ready to serve Sherborne for many years.”