Lancaster temporary library opens free on 14 September

Lancaster residents will regain six-day access to city library services when a temporary facility opens at White Cross Business Park on Monday 14 September. The public-service opening begins at 9:30am at the Quarry Road site, with free entry and no booking requirement stated.

The temporary library will operate while Lancaster Central Library remains closed for major refurbishment and restoration. Lancashire County Council says the replacement site is within walking distance of the central library and will provide books, digital access and space for activities.

More than 2,000 books and essential digital services

Visitors will be able to choose from more than 2,000 books to borrow. Computers, internet access and printing facilities will also be available, maintaining services used by residents who may not have reliable digital access elsewhere.

The White Cross facility includes a dedicated children’s area and a space for events. Baby Bounce and Rhyme sessions are already taking place there on Wednesdays and, according to the council, have been well attended.

Community groups that previously met at Lancaster Central Library are using The Centre at St Thomas’ Church while the Market Square building is unavailable.

White Cross library opening hours

The temporary library will be open from Monday to Saturday, although closing times vary during the week.

The council describes the facility as open to the general public, and the event information lists admission as free. No separate accessibility arrangements are included in the announcement. The only transport guidance provided is that White Cross Business Park, on Quarry Road, is a short walk from Lancaster Central Library.

Central library expected to reopen in spring 2027

Lancaster Central Library occupies a Grade II listed building constructed on Market Square in 1932. The scale of the work means it must remain closed throughout the project, with customers currently expected to return in spring 2027.

County Councillor Ella Worthington, cabinet member for Civic Pride, said the temporary location was secured so residents could continue borrowing books, attending events and using digital services. She said the investment in the central building was intended to protect its future and allow it to serve residents for years to come.

The extended opening hours introduced at Morecambe Library as an interim measure will end when the White Cross site opens. Lancaster Central Library users who registered for updates will receive an email or text about the alternative arrangements.

Residents can also use libraries in Morecambe, Bolton-le-Sands, Halton, Heysham, Carnforth and Silverdale during the closure. Groups displaced from Lancaster Central Library can request help finding another venue by emailing [email protected].

Source: Lancashire County Council News