Reading Central Library is set to close its doors at its current Kings Road location on Monday 11 May 2026 as it prepares to move to a new, modern facility within the Civic Centre on Bridge Street. The library will remain closed during the relocation period before reopening in its new home in summer 2026.
The move follows a decision by Reading Borough Council to relocate the service from the building it has occupied since 1985. The council noted that the old multi-floor site had become difficult for visitors to access and that bringing it up to modern standards would have required significant investment. The former library building has been sold and is expected to be converted into approximately 46 flats.
The new library is a key part of a £10.7 million regeneration project supported by a government grant. The facility, which is being constructed by Morgan Sindall Construction, will cover roughly 1,400 square metres. It is designed to be more accessible and will feature a local history section, dedicated areas for teenagers, and a children’s zone decorated with a forest and animal theme.
Once open, the library will offer over 90 workstations equipped with charging points, computers, and free WiFi. The new location will also feature a central courtyard for events. Additionally, residents will benefit from extended opening hours, with the library opening at 9am on weekdays, excluding Wednesdays.
While the Central Library is closed for the move, residents can continue to use the town’s other six neighbourhood libraries at Battle, Whitley, Caversham, Palmer Park, Tilehurst, and Southcote.
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