Cumberland Council is pleased to announce that Carlisle Library will reopen a temporary library service during the week commencing 15 December 2025.
The service will operate from the second and third floors of the library building, accessible via Level 3 of The Lanes car park, while refurbishment works continue on the first floor. The temporary service will allow customers to enjoy book browsing, borrowing, returns, and renewals in time for the festive season. The full reopening of the newly refurbished space will be in Spring 2026.
This £3.3 million transformative project, funded from the UK Government’s Carlisle Town Deal with additional investment from Cumberland Council, aims to revitalise Carlisle Library state-of-the-art learning and community hub. Designed to meet the needs of modern users, the upgraded library will offer cutting-edge facilities and services.
This project is part of Carlisle’s £19.7 million Town Deal Investment Plan, which also supports other key initiatives like the Carlisle Southern Gateway improvements and enhancements at Tullie. Together, these projects reflect a shared commitment to Carlisle’s growth and vitality.
During the current closure:
- Library Links remain open at Morton Manor, Denton Holme, Harraby, Carlisle West, Longtown, and Brampton, offering book borrowing, PC access, and WiFi.
- Digital services continue via the BorrowBox app.
- Adult Learning services will continue as normal at the Civic Centre, Carlisle.
- Local history resources are available by appointment at Carlisle Archive Centre. Details at www.cumberland.gov.uk/libraries-and-archives.
David Wright, Chair of the Town Deal Board says:
“Carlisle Library is a cornerstone of our city, and its transformation is a prime example of what the Carlisle Town Deal was created to deliver. This investment is about more than just refurbishing a building, it’s about creating a modern, welcoming space that supports learning, creativity and community life for generations to come. We’re delighted that there will be a Library service during the festive period as it is particularly important for those with young families, limited resources and those distant from their family at this time of year.”
Christmas Opening Hours
Cumberland Libraries will continue to provide services throughout the Christmas period. While some service points will have adjusted hours, the BorrowBox app remains available 24/7, offering e-books, audiobooks, newspapers, and magazines to all library members.
Carlisle Library festive opening:
- Wednesday 24 December: 9am – 1pm
- Monday 29 December: 9am – 5.30pm
- Tuesday 30 December: 10am – 5.30pm
- Wednesday 31 December: 9am – 1pm
Whitehaven Library will be open on the following days:
- Wednesday 24 December 2025: 9am – 1pm
- Monday 29 December 2025 – 9am – 5pm
- Tuesday 30 December 2025: 9am – 6pm
- Wednesday 31 December 2025: 9am – 1pm
Workington Library will be open on the following days:
Wednesday 24 December 2025: 9am – 1pm
Monday 29 December 2025 – 9am – 5pm
Tuesday 30 December 2025: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday 31 December 2025: 9am – 1pm
Normal hours resume from Friday 2 January.
For full details of opening times and services, please visit Cumberland Council Libraries or follow Cumberland Libraries on social media for updates.