POOLE Library is anticipated to reopen in October following an extensive refurbishment – around six months later than originally planned.

The library site in the Dolphin Centre shut on November 1 last year to allow for safe building adaptations, fit out, and for major replacement of ventilation, lighting and heating building systems.

It was said BCP Council Customer Services would also be accessible at the site alongside the library service when complete.

BCP Council communications at the time stated that the work would take up to six months, with a plan to reopen in spring 2022.

However, residents recently began questioning what happened to the site close to 11 months after it initially closed. On its website, the council quietly changed its reopening expectations from six months to “up to a year”.

One resident said: “Why is there such a mystery as to when the Poole Library will open? I've asked librarians in other centres and it's a mystery to them too.

“It was stated to close for six months for refurbishment however information about reopening is now unavailable.”

Bournemouth Echo: Picture: PixabayPicture: Pixabay

Following enquiries by the Echo, the council said the long delays have been caused by global supply chain issues with ventilation, lighting and heating systems.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “As part of our plans to create a more modern, efficient and cost-effective council, we are bringing services together at Poole Library to make them more convenient for residents, which will see Customer Services and Library Services available to access in one friendly place.

“Work to modernise the building has taken longer than originally planned due to a major replacement of ventilation, lighting and heating systems and delays caused by the global supply chain issues that have affected building projects throughout the country.

“Library staff are working on site to prepare the library for re-opening. IT systems are in the process of being installed and tested. We anticipate being able to welcome residents back into this fantastic new space nearer the end of October, and will share more information on an exact date in due course.”

For enquiries about local libraries, residents are urged to email BCPLibraries@bcpcouncil.gov.uk for more information.