VERWOOD Library will close for a week next month for ‘essential’ building work – but don’t worry, you won’t rack up late fees.

The library, in Manor Road, will be shut for five days from Monday, November 18, re-opening on Saturday, November 23.

Dorset Council said the closure will allow essential building work to be carried out to prepare for the installation of new technology which will allow library members to use library facilities beyond staffed opening hours.

“We hope to launch this “Extended Access” for our library members at Verwood later this year,” a spokesperson said.

“Customers are able to borrow up to 20 books. All book loans will be extended to ensure no returns are due while the library is closed.”

During the closure, customers can visit libraries in Ferndown, West Moors and Wimborne, where they can borrow and return books as well as use the facilities.

The online library, offering e-books, e-magazines and e-newspapers, is also available, where people can also check their account and other information.

Work at Verwood Library has been funded by Arts Council England and is part of a broader project to launch ‘Extended Access’ at four county libraries: Verwood, Sturminster Newton, Gillingham and Sherborne.

Cllr Ryan Hope, portfolio holder for customer, culture and community engagement at the council, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to improve the facilities for our customers at Verwood Library thanks to funding from Arts Council England.

“We know the residents will benefit significantly from the investment and expansion of opening times once the work has been completed.”