First works take place at Charminster Library this month
BCP Council says the first essential works to address major issues at Charminster Library will begin later this month, as part of efforts to potentially reopen the building in the future.
The library has been closed since December 2025 following a partial ceiling collapse, and detailed assessments have found significant problems inside the building.
Safety issues and costs
After inspections, the council estimated that making the building safe for customers could cost more than £680,000.
The initial work starting at the end of this month will focus on a key priority: removing the significant levels of asbestos found in the roof.
Council: “We haven’t given up”
Cllr Andy Martin, BCP Council Cabinet member responsible for libraries, said the council hopes to reopen the library and is taking this first step to understand what further repairs may be possible.
He said asbestos specialists will remove the material and inspect the condition of the roof timbers before the council can plan what happens next. He added that while the overall project could be large and costly, the council has not given up on the library and will keep residents updated throughout the summer.
Further assessments planned
Alongside asbestos removal, contractors will also assess whether it is feasible to secure roof-mounted metal radiators, which the council says currently pose a major risk.
Local councillors welcome the move
Ward councillor Cllr Sharon Carr-Brown welcomed the first step, saying residents don’t need a full revamp — they want the building safe and open again, as it is “sorely missed”.
Ward councillor Cllr Alasdair Keddie also said he was pleased to hear progress is being made, adding that removing asbestos and securing the heavy radiators would be a major step towards reopening.
Library services still available
While Charminster Library remains closed, residents can still use any library across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. The nearest alternatives Winton and Castlepoint libraries are open as normal.
Customers can also access digital services from home via the BorrowBox app, including:
- Borrow up to 10 ebooks at a time
- Access 3,000+ magazine titles
- Read 1,000+ newspaper titles
- Listen to up to five audiobooks online
A Home Library Service is also available for residents who can’t get to a library due to age, disability, or caring responsibilities. People can contact the Royal Voluntary Service Home Library Manager at bcphomelibraryservice@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or call 01305 236 666.
More information on other libraries is available at: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library
