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Delay could see users fall
A FORMER librarian has warned further delays to the opening of the central Ealing branch could see a drop in users.
A fire at Ealing Central Library at the end of April caused severe smoke damage which needed an extensive clean-up operation and repainting, causing the re-opening to be pushed back.
The library, in the Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre, has been closed since last April for a £2m refurbishment, which is set to include a new computer suite a coffee shop and a children's library.
It was originally meant to reopen in January, but this did not happen becuase developers Skyline Office Interiors found cracks in the walls, believed to have been caused when a Tesco store was built below the library.
Peter Ludbrook, 65, a librarian at the central library for eight years until he retired in 2003, said: "It's very unfortunate, and it's very difficult to say what effect the delay will have.
"The longer the library is closed the easier it is for people to change their habits and go elsewhere.
"When it does reopen now it will be important for the council to make a nig deal of it, or face losing not attracting people back to use the new facilities.
"The refurbishment was badly needed, and I just hope these delays do not have too much of an effect on the libraries."
The fire brigade is investigating the cause of the blaze, and Ealing Council spokesman, Verity Adams said: "We understand the closure has caused some inconvenience to residents and would like to thank them for their patience during the refurbishment."
7:05am Wednesday 21st May 2008
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