Hackney,
15
February
2024
|
09:00
Europe/London

Stoke Newington Library refurbishment part of £4.4m investment plan

As part of a wider investment into Hackney’s library service, Stoke Newington Library is set to temporarily close its doors to the public for a renovation project which includes repairs made to the roof and fabric of the community facility. 

The Council’s £4.4 million investment into the borough’s libraries is at the heart of Hackney’s new library strategy which aims to modernise the borough’s libraries and ensure they are flexible, innovative and inclusive spaces that cater to the needs of residents.

Stoke Newington Library will close from Sunday 31 March for up to two years to accommodate the major capital works that are needed to repair the roof and fabric of the Grade 2 listed building which was built in 1892 and houses Stoke Newington’s World War One Memorial. 

During the closure period residents will be able to use services at nearby branch locations in Woodberry Down, Stamford Hill, Clapton and Dalston CLR James. Weekly rhymetimes will be held at Clissold House for babies and toddlers and regular activities will be available at all our other libraries.

The Council is also making capital investments into nearby Stamford Hill Library, to provide a new roof and install a lift to provide added accessibility to the upper floor. Hackney’s Community Library Service is available to residents who are unable to visit a library due to age, disability or caring responsibilities. The e-library is available 24 hours a day for library members to download e-books and other digital resources.   

The refurbishment of Stoke Newington Library is part of our commitment to ensuring that the borough’s libraries deliver a sustainable service that is fit for the modern digital world and accessible to all. Significant portions of the library roof are now in need of repair and we’re bringing the building back into good repair as residents have asked. While the library is closed residents will need to use other libraries nearby plus our online services. Library staff will be actively engaging with the community to provide updates on the progress and sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of the transformation. Residents can also stay informed by checking on social media, the library website and the council newsletter.

Cllr Chris Kennedy, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care, Leisure and Culture