Low Fell Library in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, has closed to the public and will remain shut until the end of April 2026. The charity that runs the building, the Low Fell Library Association, confirmed that the site has been completely emptied to allow for work to take place. A professional removal company has already boxed up the entire collection of books and moved them into a storage facility while the branch is out of action.
The closure means several regular community services are currently unavailable at the branch for the next two months. This includes the four weekly Rhyme Time sessions for children that usually take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Access to five public computers and printing services has also been stopped until the building reopens, which may impact residents who rely on the library for internet access and essential tasks.
The community food bank collection point usually located at the library is also suspended for the duration of the closure. According to the Gateshead Foodbank, donors should instead take their items to other nearby locations such as Beacon Lough Baptist Church or St Helen’s Church. Volunteers who run the library have asked the public to use these alternatives until the food collection point is back in place later this year.
Residents who need a physical library or computer access are being pointed toward Gateshead Central Library as the nearest alternative hub. The central branch is about two and a half miles away and can be reached using the frequent number 21 bus service. This alternative branch offers full library services and computer facilities to all local residents who cannot wait for the Low Fell site to reopen.
For those who prefer to use services from home, Gateshead Council provides several digital options for reading and research. These include the BorrowBox app for downloading electronic books and the Readers at Home delivery scheme, which is specifically designed to help people with mobility issues get books delivered directly to their door while their local library is closed.
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