Dulwich Library will close for refurbishment until April, with three other libraries in the borough plugging the gap with longer opening hours.

The building will be redecorated, its heating and cooling systems upgraded, and new flooring put in. It will get a dedicated new teenage zone, a study, and an IT room. Its children’s library will be “refreshed.” Southwark Council has said. The renovation will make the library “greener” and “fully accessible to everyone,” it promised.

The council has invited residents to visit Dulwich Library in the week of November 16 to review the layout plans and express their opinion on improving the service.

Dulwich Library opened in 1897, when Queen Victoria was marking 60 years on the throne. The Grade II listed building was last renovated in 2013, and it is showing signs of wear and tear. When SouthLondonLines (SLL) visited, the carpets were dirty and the toilets were blocked.

Meno Jacob, who will oversee the refurbishment work for the Council, told SLL that refurbishment will make the library more accessible. “The ground floor will be redesigned with a more user-friendly layout,” he said, and the lift will also be upgraded lift, shelving will be better positioned and there will be more open space for wheelchair users.

He said the new teenage zone will allow the library “to tailor services and spaces that reflect their interests, support their development, and provide a safe, welcoming place to socialise and learn.”