Temporary library opens during emergency repairs

The pop-up library will offer services while roof repairs are carried out on the original building

A temporary library has been opened while emergency repairs are carried out at the original facility.

Bridgwater Library has been closed since 22 October after £1.5m of council funding was agreed to fix its leaking roof.

Somerset Council has opened a pop-up library at Bridgwater House for locals who want to access services.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture said the council was "really pleased" at being able to provide the "vital resource for the community".

The main library, which is housed in a listed building close to Blake Gardens, is expected to reopen in early January.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts said the county council wants to reopen the original library as soon as possible

The library, first opened in 1906, was closed after the main building suffered interior ceiling damage when the roof leaked.

The temporary library at Bridgwater House on Northgate will offer a wide range of services, including book borrowing and returns, public computer access, and will host some events.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts described libraries as "more than just books" and says it's a place where people can "access services and connect with each other".

She added: "Our main focus is, of course, to get the library building up and running as soon as we possibly can."