Carlisle Library transformation

We are spending £3.3 million on transforming Carlisle Library into a state-of-the-art learning and community hub, designed to meet the evolving needs of the local community.

Funding for this project

The Carlisle Library transformation project is funded by £2.7 million from the UK Government's Carlisle Town Deal Investment Plan and additional investment from Cumberland Council.

The £19.7 million Carlisle Town Deal Investment Plan, aims to regenerate towns and deliver long-term economic and productivity growth. This is through investments in:

urban regeneration
digital and physical connectivity
skills
heritage
enterprise infrastructure

Project overview

The project will include significant improvements, including:

structural work
rewiring
infrastructure
new technology and facilities

The new modern library space will offer exciting features for visitors of all ages. You will find:

a vibrant children's zone with a wide selection of books and digital resources
a social space with comfortable seating
adult learning classrooms for digital literacy classes and hands-on workshops
study spaces offering private desks, charging stations, and digital resources
the Jackson Collection with thousands of rare items dating back to the 1600s

Project timeline

Construction phase: Starting in Spring 2025

Temporary closure: Carlisle library will be closed from Monday 23 March to Saturday 28 March 2026

Limited temporary reception service on level 3: From Monday 30 March to mid-June 2026

Phased reopening: From mid-June 2026

Current services during the closed period

The Adult Learning services have relocated to the Civic Centre in Carlisle.

Applications for bus passes will be online during the closed period.

Limited temporary reception service

A temporary service will open on the 3rd floor, accessible from Level 3 of The Lanes car park.

They will provide:

collection of hearing aid batteries
Blue Badge forms
bus pass services
returned books and items
collection of requested books on hold

The following services will be unavailable:

browsing
printing, scanning and photocopying
computer access

There will be no disruption to the Book Group collections.

There may be some construction noise during this time.

Children's activities

Follow Cumberland Libraries on social media for updates about children’s activities and events.

Temporary library services

During the closure, you will be able to use the following library links:

Morton Manor Community Centre

Denton Holme Community Centre

Harraby Library Link

Longtown Library

Brampton Library

You will have access to PC's, book borrowing and wifi. You will not be able to book a computer at a library link.

Find more information on the mobile library app.

A glimpse into the future of Carlisle Library

We’re excited to unveil a sneak peek of the ambitious transformation planned for Carlisle Library.

Our design photos showcase the vision for a modern, dynamic space that will serve as a state-of-the-art learning and community hub for the entire city.

The updated design blends cutting-edge technology with a welcoming community environment, offering a space where people of all ages can learn, relax, and connect.