BRIERLEY Hill Library is to close for a week next week while vital work is carried out to remove asbestos.

The library in Brierley Hill High Street will be closed from Monday January 9 while specialist contractors move in to undertake the work in accordance with health and safety regulations.

The asbestos was found on the second floor of the library during recent renovation works.

Councillor Adrian Turner, Dudley’s cabinet member for housing, libraries and adult learning, said: “Our priority is to ensure the health and safety of all staff and visitors to the library.

“Although it is unfortunate the library has to close for one week, it is necessary to ensure the asbestos can be removed safely.”

The housing office located on the ground floor of the library will, however, remain open as normal while the work is carried out.

Cllr Turner stressed: “There will be no risk for people choosing to visit the housing office during that week; it will be business as usual.”

People will also be able to call the Citizens Advice Bureau as normal but will not be able to visit during the week.

Library staff will be relocated to other libraries during the temporary closure.

For information on alternative library services check out www.dudley.gov.uk/libraries