Residents have shared their fears after KCC announced Sandwich Library will close for three months.

The closure from Saturday, May 2, until Saturday, July 25, is for Kent County Council to replace the leaking roof, install new lighting and update the fire alarm system.

The cost of the repairs will be £178,000.

Library users are advised to visit Deal, Ash, Aylesham or Ramsgate library during the closure.

Margaret Simpson, chairman of Sandwich Library Guild, said: “SLG is concerned about the length of time the library will be closed.

“However, we do welcome the news that repairs to the roof and electrical wiring are finally being made, as we see this as a sign of KCC’s commitment to the future of the library in Sandwich.

“But there must be proper arrangements to cater for the needs of the town’s library users during the closure, so that they won’t be left high and dry for several months.

“Many of our members would find it difficult to travel to Deal or Ash, so we are hoping that a temporary static mobile library will be provided, and that a full range of services will still be available.”

Kent County Council has confirmed it is investigating the possibility of installing a mobile library in Sandwich.

Elizabeth Jones, former Guild member, said: “Once its closed and everybody’s got used to going somewhere else one thing leads to another and it could close permanently.”

She said in light of the recent consultation to move library services to a charitable trust, there have been concerns that this could lead to closures and has left many residents feeling unsettled.

“Once its closed and everybody’s got used to going somewhere else one thing leads to another and it could close permanently.” - Elizabeth Jones.

A spokesman for KCC said: “A leaking roof is clearly not ideal for a library and we need to ensure that the premises are warm, safe and dry.

“Sandwich residents and our own staff need and deserve better facilities.”

Customers who take out books before the closure will be given an extended period for the return of borrowed items.

The registration of births and deaths – a service currently available on Fridays – cannot be provided at Sandwich and the closest alternatives are at Ramsgate, Deal and Dover.

n For more information contact 03000 413131, or email sandwichlibrary@kent.gov.uk.