ULVERSTON library has been closed with immediate effect after routine statutory checks identified electrical safety issues in the building. 

Westmorland and Furness Council has closed the building on King's Road from the end of business today (Friday, 1 September). 

The council will provide an update on the building early next week. 

A spokesperson said: "The safety of our service users and staff is our immediate priority so we have taken the decision to close the library in Ulverston while further investigations are carried out.

“Please also note that the decision to close the library is related to its electrics and has nothing to do with aerated concrete, which we know has been in the national news.

"Our Library Services team is already making arrangements for an alternative library provision to be established in Ulverston as soon as possible.

“In the meantime, the nearest alternative libraries are located at Grange and Barrow, with Library Links in Dalton and Broughton-in-Furness.

"We also have a digital library service on offer at: https://www.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/libraries-and-archives/cumbria-libraries/cumbria-libraries-online-catalogues

“Our apologies for the inconvenience – we appreciate how popular and well-used Ulverston Library is and please be reassured that we are working hard to ensure Ulverston continues to have access to a library service as soon as possible.

“We aim to be able to provide further updates early next week.’’