West Swindon Library remains closed months after flooding affected the Link Centre, leaving many wondering when it might reopen.

The latest update from the Swindon Borough Council libraries team is promising, with a site visit with GLL to review outstanding building works set for May 1 and then a possible opening date to follow after that. 

But when the eagerly anticipated reopening of the facility does happen, members of the public have been warned that it will be at a reduced offering. 

A spokesperson for Swindon Borough Council said: "Please note that initially, the library will reopen within a reduced space, as flood damage has destroyed all ground floor wiring in the Link Centre.

"This is needed because, despite the restoration of mains power, at a future date GLL and their contractors will need to close temporarily to replace and renew all wiring."

Work to reopen the library was delayed because the concrete flooring was too damp to work with, but it has now dried sufficiently enough to allow new carpet tiles to be laid. 

An electrical power system has been supplied to the library through a series of interim wall-mounted cables and sockets.

A new library layout has been designed and is now being implemented – and SBC IT have ensured all required data points for this layout are now in place.

In addition to this, BT have successfully installed a brand new internet connection for the library – anticipated to be an improvement on the pre-flood connection. This will be connected to data ports starting this week. 

Library staff have also been busy, comprehensively processing and weeding all library books ready for reopening, including adding in all new books which were ordered and arrived during the closure.

The team still need to carry out compliance checks for fire, and water safety, and finish all furniture, shelving moves and layout setting up. 

After the initial library reopening, the team will then address the restoration of non-public library areas – including the garage for the library delivery van, book store, staff rooms and processing areas.

It has been confirmed nobody will be fined for overdue books they have not been able to return during this period and that if any fines are showing an account, they will be removed.