Pembrokeshire Library Service is informing customers that, due to unavoidable delays with the delivery of key items required for scheduled improvement works, the planned temporary closure of the Riverside Library, Gallery and Visitor Information in Haverfordwest, has been moved to January.

The Library will now remain open throughout December and will close at 1pm on December 24, for the Christmas break.

The library will reopen as normal on January 2 and 3.

To allow the outstanding works to be completed, the library will then close for a two-week period from January 5, to 17.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council said: “This is the least disruptive closure option available to enable these works to be undertaken, and avoids what would have otherwise been numerous short closure and reopening periods over December and January.

“During the closure period, all library books on loan from Haverfordwest Library will be automatically extended until the end of January to prevent customers from incurring overdue fines.

“The Coffee Shop will close for Christmas and New Year. However, it will remain open in January and will not be affected by the temporary library closure.

“This project builds on previous Welsh Government investment to unlock the full potential of the Library, ensuring that the original vision is fully realised for the benefit of the entire community.”

Planned improvements include:

  • An improved children’s library – with increased seating for adults and children to enjoy reading and learning together, plus additional space for author visits, class sessions, and children’s activities.
  • Enhanced digital and Visitor Information services – public Wi-Fi printing for the first time, alongside a refreshed and expanded Visitor Information area.
  • A redesign of the access routes into the building to help to create a safer and more welcoming environment for all

Library customers are thanked for their patience and understanding for any inconvenience caused.