Fears Thurso library will become a closed book
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THURSO Library could be closed for at least another three months after major structural problems were discovered during refurbishment works.
Worried users are fearing for its future and have blasted operators High Life Highland for not keeping the public informed about the delay in its reopening.
The library was closed at the beginning of January and was originally scheduled to remain shut for 12 weeks, while work to deal with asbestos was carried out.
But major structural issues have been detected since relating to the roof and windows of the B-listed building in Davidson’s Lane, while major rewiring is also required.
Thurso Highland councillor Roger Saxon has held talks with High Life Highland chief executive Ian Murray to find out the extent of the problem and is calling for a temporary new home for the library in the town while repairs are completed. "It is past the time they stated it would be reopened and there has not been any explanation to the public why it has been closed," he said yesterday.
"I have been told there are structural problems with windows and the roof, along with rewiring, so improvements will take a lot longer than expected.
"It could be at least another three months but I can’t say for sure how long it will be closed."
Mr Saxon added: "High Life Highland and the council’s education, culture and sport officials are seeking a solution by way of a temporary building to house the library until the problem is sorted.
"The library will definitely reopen and I have a few suggestions where a public building might be leased to house it."
A mobile library is based at Thurso swimming pool, while the Davidson’s Lane building – which was built between 1859 and 1862 as a school – remains out of commission.
Regular users say they are concerned about the lack of information being provided.
Beatrice Murphy (71) of Marine Terrace in Thurso said the delay was causing real fears among people that the library might not reopen at all.
"There has been a lack of information about the future of the library and a lot of users are worried about its future," she said.
"I keep asking staff at the mobile library but they tell me they have not been informed about what’s happening.
"There are many people who go to the library to use its computers as well as take out books and it is getting to the point where we are becoming so concerned that the library might just disappear."
A spokesperson for High Life Highland said the library could be closed until at least June but could not offer an exact date when it would reopen.
He confirmed that the possibility of renting temporary premises in the meantime was being explored.
"A reduced library service will be maintained through the continued provision of a library unit," he added.
"High Life Highland will continue to work with the Highland Council to seek alternative accommodation for the library."
