Friends of Charminster Library
Help save our much love library from permanent closure
Our library is one of the most used in BCP, but years of neglect means it is now at risk of closure
We are exploring funding options to repair the defects, ideally expanding the services provided.
BUT - we need your help to understand what you ideally want this community asset to be.
What's Happened
The library has suffered from many years of inadequate maintenance and investment, further impacted by theft of lead from the roof that caused significant water ingress. This resulted in roof timbers rotting, and a 80KG cast iron radiator that was suspended from a roof joist came crashing through the ceiling. There are a further 40 of these radiators which risk further joist failures, meaning access to the building is currently prohibited. Before these can be assessed further asbestos, previously safely boxed into the roof, needs to be removed.
This Means
Current repair estimated are in the region of £750k, and BCP council has stated they do not have the budget available and so other funding options must be explored. Asbestos was found in the roof void during investigations, and this must be removed and the air made safe before any further investigations can take place. There are also key risks associated with further radiators falling, and these must also be made safe. This initial work to make it safe for workers to enter is estimated between £80k-£120k.
Community Support is Vital
The library is at significant risk as council budget is not available. We are looking at other funding options, but key to this is your help in advising the value you have for the library and what you see the library could become if it provided additional community services.
How Can I Help
Please sign the petitions (both of them) to show how much the library means to you, and share any memories or stories you may have about the library and what it means to you personally.