The Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library in Norwich will close from 27 April until mid-July 2026 to allow for a major £1.3 million refurbishment project. As one of the most popular libraries in the UK, the facility will undergo these improvements to celebrate its 25th anniversary and modernise the space for the more than one million people who visit annually.
The Norfolk County Council decided to undertake the project as a full closure rather than attempting to keep the building open during the work. Sarah Hassan, head of libraries development, explained that closing the library entirely allows the project to be completed more rapidly, safely, and cost-effectively.
During the closure, the rest of the Forum building will remain open, and library staff will offer limited services from a temporary space within the site to assist residents with book returns and borrowing. While the main library is closed, the council is encouraging residents to use other branch libraries in the area, including those at Earlham, Mile Cross, Plumstead Road, St Williams Way, Hellesdon, Costessey, Sprowston, and Tuckswood.
The planned upgrades are designed to make the library more accessible and user-friendly. Improvements will include a new bookshop-style entrance, increased study space, better lighting, and furniture with integrated power and USB ports. The project also introduces a redesigned early years area with dragon and river-themed furniture, along with dedicated new sections for children aged eight and over and for teenagers.
Margaret Dewsbury, the cabinet member for communities and partnerships, stated that the council is proud to invest in the building to ensure it remains a welcoming space for everyone. The library first opened in 2001 as a replacement for the former Norwich Central Library, which was destroyed by a fire in 1994.
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