Charminster Library

26/03/2026

An update on Charminster Library following the recent partial ceiling collapse 👇

We're sorry to share that Charminster Library will need to remain closed for the foreseeable future. We know how disappointing this is. We know this Library is a valued space for so many, and this is not the outcome any of us wanted. But we cannot reopen a building that puts people’s safety at risk.

Recent surveys have confirmed serious building safety issues. The essential repairs required to make the building safe would cost over £680,000 and this is funding we do not have.

The library will remain closed while we explore every option for a long term solution.

We are committed to maintaining library access for residents in the Charminster area, and we will keep the community updated as soon as we have more to share.

Whilst Charminster Library remains closed, library members can still use any library in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. The nearest alternative libraries at Winton and Castlepoint are open as normal, and each one is just under a mile away from the Charminster branch.

Find out more here: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/news-hub/news-articles/bcp-council-provides-update-on-charminster-library

05/02/2026

Following the partial ceiling collapse at Charminster Library and its temporary closure since Monday 22nd December, Councillor Andy Martin, BCP Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries has provided an update:

Cllr Martin said:

“We all know how much everyone values Charminster Library as a much-loved community facility, but the safety of our customers and staff comes first. This is why we must keep the building temporarily closed whilst we continue to assess the situation.

“Recent further assessment has identified a small amount of asbestos in the affected part of the building. In the same area, newly uncovered structural joists will also require essential repairs.

“As such, Charminster Library is likely to remain closed for the next three months or so.

“Dealing with structural damage to any building is complex and once we have undertaken all the necessary assessments, we will have a clearer picture of what is needed to be done to repair the building, including costs.

“Charminster Library remains an important part of our Library Strategy, which was recently approved by Cabinet; showing our commitment to all our 24 libraries and looking towards further investment that will achieve modern and inclusive access to books, learning, and digital resources.

“We will keep people informed on the work need to repair the damage and share further updates as soon as we can.”

Items borrowed from Charminster Library can be returned to any library within Libraries West www.librarieswest.org.uk/our-libraries

Find contact details of other libraries within Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole here www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library

The nearest alternative libraries for customers to visit are at Winton, Boscombe and Castlepoint.

14/01/2026

We have an update following the temporary closure of Charminster Library last month.
Councillor Andy Martin, Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries said:
“Charminster Library is moving a step closer to reopening as essential safety work continues behind the scenes.
“Following a partial ceiling collapse in a non-public area on the evening of 19 December, thorough inspections have found additional fixtures that require securing.
“This essential safety work is progressing well, and repairs to the ceiling and final clean up will soon begin.
“We expect the library to reopen in the second week of February 2026 and will update residents as work progresses.
“Ensuring the safety of staff and visitors remains our highest priority, and we are grateful for the community’s patience and understanding during this temporary closure.”

05/01/2026

Following a partial ceiling collapse at Charminster Library, the building remains closed. We have instructed a Structural Engineer to advise on the integrity of the roof structure and once we know more we can consider the next steps.

The library is an important community resource, and we are committed to keeping people informed during this temporary closure.

📚In the meantime, Items borrowed from Charminster Library can be returned to any library within Libraries West www.librarieswest.org.uk/our-libraries

👉Find contact details of other libraries within Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole here www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library

The nearest alternative libraries are Winton and Castlepoint.

22/12/2025

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Charminster Library is currently closed. We will post an update when we have one.

The Storytime session on Tuesday 23 December is cancelled.

In the meantime you can contact other BCP Libraries by phone or email

Find your nearest library and when it's open.

22/12/2025

Our holiday crafting for children is available up to 3 Jan. Drop in to make a snowy window scene and a penguin headband. We also have the scavenger hunt and design a Christmas Stocking competition going on too.

21/12/2025

Christmas Storytime. Why not join us on Tues 23 Dec 10.30am for a storytime for under 7s. We will be sharing lots of lovely Christmas stories and those that attend can make a Santa in a chimney model. No need to book, just come along.

20/12/2025

Remember the Winter Mini Challenge has started for the children to take part in. Join online WinterMini.org.uk and read 3 books up to 20 Feb. Collect digital stickers and a certificate if they complete.

18/12/2025

Our holiday crafting for children will be available between 20 Dec and 3 Jan. Drop in to make a snowy window scene and a penguin headband. We also have the scavenger hunt and design a Christmas Stocking competition going on too.

15/12/2025

This is our last week of children's crafting for Christmas. Drop in anytime to make a North Pole mini scene and some paper ornaments. See if you can spot the naughty Elf and go on a scavenger hunt.

11/12/2025

Wriggle & Rhyme is taking a short break for the Christmas holidays, we are back again on Thursday 8 Jan, 10-10.30am. Please join us to sing nursery rhymes & pre-school songs and meet other parents/carers, open to under 4s. Just come along, no need to book.