Cumberland Council in the UK has selected Krol Corlett Construction as the lead contractor for the transformation of Carlisle Library.
The redevelopment is part of a broader initiative to enhance the city’s cultural and educational offerings, supported by a £3.3m ($4.25m) investment from the UK government’s Carlisle Town Deal.
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Krol Corlett Construction managing director Daniel Tebay said: “We are thrilled to be working alongside the team at Cumberland Council in delivering the transformation of Carlisle Library, a key part of the wider £100m investment in the city.
“At Krol Corlett Construction, we recognise the vital role projects like these play in strengthening local communities, and we are proud to bring over 50 years of expertise in delivering high-quality public sector developments.
“We look forward to collaborating closely with Cumberland Council to successfully deliver this new, modern learning and community hub, while also fostering long-term partnerships within the local community.”
Improvements planned for the library include a children’s section, adult learning classrooms, study areas, an area for The Jackson Collection, and social spaces.
Furthermore, the building will undergo structural modifications, rewiring, and infrastructure improvements to integrate the latest technology.
To maintain service continuity, a temporary library space will be made available within the existing building.
The first floor will remain open to the public while the second floor will be closed for refurbishment. Digital services, including the Borrowbox app, will continue with regular operations.
Meanwhile, the site’s Adult Learning Service has been temporarily relocated to the Civic Centre in Carlisle, ensuring that normal operations can proceed uninterrupted.
Local history and genealogy resources will remain accessible via public library computers, and for users requiring physical local history materials, the Carlisle Archive Centre will provide appointments for access.
The Carlisle Library transformation is a part of the wider £19.7m Town Deal Investment Plan, which includes other strategic initiatives such as Carlisle Southern Gateway improvements and enhancements at Tullie House.
Last month, Cumberland Council granted planning permission and approved a construction contract to Thomas Armstrong for the development of a leisure centre in Millom.
