Southborough Library shut its doors for a £500,000 revamp on March 20, as part of Bromley Council’s £10 million, two-year library repair programme.
The major upgrade will cover nine locations, including Southborough, along with Beckenham, Mottingham, Chislehurst, Burnt Ash, Orpington, Petts Wood, Penge, and Hayes.
Southborough Library in Bromley will see extensive repairs, outdated materials replaced and the building’s infrastructure updated.
The refurbishment also includes plans for new public access toilets equipped with baby changing facilities.
Other libraries in the area will provide support while Southborough Library is shut for this extensive makeover.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, executive councillor for renewal, recreation and regeneration, said that this refurb will provide a “much-needed improvement” to the library.
She said: “These works will deliver a much-needed improvement to ensure that our busy libraries are prepared for the future.
“Having issued more books last year than any other London borough, this major investment will ensure that Bromley’s libraries continue to thrive and provide the high quality of services and support that make an invaluable contribution to many of our lives.
“I would like to thank residents in advance for their patience as we make these improvements.”
The renovations are scheduled in phases to minimise disruption and ensure the maximum amount of library space remains open at any one time.
Southborough Library users will be redirected to alternative nearby locations where necessary.
The nearest operational libraries during the closure will be Petts Wood, Hayes and Bromley Central Libraries.
Separately, a project is also underway to revamp West Wickham Library.
Southborough Library is expected to reopen in late summer 2024.
For more information about the library repair programme, or Bromley libraries in general, check the council’s website.
