After closing due to fire damage, a library has now found out it will need to replace its roof and so cannot open for the rest of the year.

Herts Fire and Rescue were called to reports of a blaze at Rickmansworth Library, in the town's high street, at around 6.12am on April 18.

The damage forced it to shut until further notice, but more bad news was revealed last week as it was confirmed that the roof requires complete replacement.

(Image: Stephen Danzig)

This means it cannot reopen until the end of January 2025, according to current estimates.

“Prior to the fire we had been experiencing significant leaks during periods of heavy rainfall,” an update from the library, via Hertfordshire County Council said.

“It has now been confirmed that the roof requires complete replacement. This is a pre-existing property issue, unrelated to the fire damage.

(Image: Stephen Danzig)

“We have also been advised that the final stages of the fire recovery cannot be completed before the new roof is in place due to the risk of additional water damage from external leaks.

“We have therefore brought forward the plans for the roof replacement.”

The council is therefore searching for a temporary location to move Rickmansworth’s library services to in the meantime.

Rickmansworth Library in May.Rickmansworth Library in May. (Image: Stephen Danzig)

A spokesperson added: “Searches for appropriate premises have been taking place and we will confirm the plans for opening the temporary library provision as soon as arrangements are made.”

It also plans to share a reopening date closer to the time, “as timescales become clearer”.

Herts Fire and Rescue sent three fire engines to the library on April 18. Firefighters found smoke rising from the building before entering to extinguish the source of the flames.

Most of the damage was within the workroom but a large part of the building needed repairs. Besides the roof replacement, necessary work has included rewiring, clearing, and replacing the staff work areas, as well as cleaning all the books, furniture, shelving, and carpets of soot and ash.