Kirklees Together

Dewsbury Library will open in its new home in the heart of the town centre on 16 February 2026.

Where is Dewsbury Library moving to?

The library hub is relocating from its current location on Railway Street to the Walsh Building, right next to the Town Hall. Together, these two landmark buildings will frame a revitalised public space designed to bring new life and activity into the centre of Dewsbury.

When will the move happen?

We will begin to move on 9 February, when we transfer books, equipment and other resources to the new site.

During the transition period (9 – 12 February), visitors will still be able to return books and access housing support services, but other library services will be temporarily unavailable.

The library will be closed on Friday 13, Saturday 14, and Sunday 15 February.

Where can I access services during the move?

Full services will continue to be available at nearby libraries: Batley Library Hub and Ravensthorpe Library Hub (Greenwood Centre). Opening times and locations for all libraries can be found on the Kirklees Libraries website: www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/libraries/our-libraries/locations-and-opening-times.aspx

Housing support will continue to operate from Huddersfield Library Hub during the closure and will also be available to call on 01484 221350.

What will the new Dewsbury Library Hub be like?

When the library reopens in the newly refurbished Walsh Building, it will offer all existing services including:

• Access to council services, digital and IT support, free Wi-Fi, and information
• A wide-ranging programme of events and activities for all ages, including Story Times, Rhyme Times, and Knit & Natter groups
• Community space for library groups & activities
• Children’s library
• Delivery of wraparound support services, e.g., stop smoking and healthy weight group support
• Housing support
• Upgraded toilets and décor
• An exciting new MakerSpace offer

What is a MakerSpace?

The MakerSpace will provide a collaborative, creative environment with equipment and technology for hands-on projects. It will reflect the town’s rich textile heritage by focussing on textiles, graphics, and design. It will offer opportunities for artists, makers, students, hobbyists and small businesses to explore new ideas and develop their skills.

The space will also support learning in digital and electronic skills. This will include coding, with access to specialist tools such as Raspberry Pi and Arduino kits.

Further details on how to access and use the MakerSpace will be available in the coming weeks via the Creative Kirklees website: www.creativekirklees.com/libraries and Kirklees Libraries social media accounts.

How will the new library hub play a part in the regeneration of Dewsbury?

Cllr Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Environment and Communities said:

“When the library hub moves into the town centre, you’ll find the same warm welcome as before. All the familiar services – from books to computers, as well as relaxing places to sit, read and study, will still be there. The new hub will also include a community room for library groups and activities, and a children’s library with both indoor and outdoor spaces to explore.

“For the first time, the Town Hall and new Dewsbury Library Hub will be connected by a single, continuous pedestrian area. Once the public realm works are complete, visitors will be able to step straight from the library into a new public square—a perfect place to relax, meet friends or enjoy reading outdoors.

The library move forms part of the wider Dewsbury Blueprint investment and regeneration work which aims to revitalise the town centre and make it a great place to live, work, shop and spend time.”