Central Library temporary closure: books and archives to be removed as essential work planned.

Lincs Inspire and North East Lincolnshire Council have confirmed that one-to-one appointments are going ahead at Cleethorpes Library – to book contact 01472 323650.  There is also an option for people to be helped over the phone. Scanning facilities are available at Cleethorpes as well as at the libraries in Waltham and Immingham. See below for opening hours.

An alternative site for the Credit Union is also being looked for. In the meantime, for appointments please contact 01482 778753.

Meanwhile, unreturned library books can go to the libraries in Cleethorpes, Waltham or Immingham – or to the reception at the Municipal offices, which is open Monday to Friday 8.45am until 4pm (excluding bank holidays).

Grimsby Central Library building had to close at short notice after a water leak created a risk of asbestos disturbance. As was common at the time of its construction and opening 58 years ago, the building and materials within it contain asbestos.

Further work is now needed with assessments and necessary asbestos removal and the building will remain closed for some time as this is carried out. The safe removal of the local history archives and books will take place to protect them during the work.

A temporary location for the service in the town centre is being sought, with considerations such as space, location and the IT infrastructure that is needed. Further details will be released as soon as possible. 

North East Lincolnshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Visitor Economy, Cllr Hayden Dawkins, said: “Like almost all buildings of this age, asbestos is an issue and until this is dealt with properly, we cannot move forward with any plans for this building.  

“The recent water leak and subsequent damage has accelerated essential asbestos removal works that would have always been needed.  We will ensure we move as swiftly as we possibly can, and in the meantime, we do apologise for the inconvenience for library users,” he added.

Opening times:

• Cleethorpes Library on Alexandra Road, open 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 1pm Saturday;

• Immingham Library at the Civic Centre on Pelham Road, open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm Saturday;

• Waltham Library on the High Street, open 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm Tuesday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm Saturday.

There is also the online service available via www.lincsinspire.com

More information can also be found at https://lincsinspire.com/libraries-archives/branches/grimsby-central-library/temporary-closure/