Work started in January to transform 14 Sandgate Road into the hub bringing back the full range of library, registration and archive services to the town centre for the first time in three years, alongside classrooms and learning spaces for adult education.
As work progresses, KCC can confirm the building will officially open on Tuesday 26 May 2026.
The centre will bring together learning, culture and essential services under one roof. Facilities will include:
- Adult and children’s library, including the local history collection
- Accessible areas for reading, study and community events
- Digital facilities, including free public Wi‑Fi and computers
- A town-centre location for birth and death registration appointments
- Modern classrooms and teaching spaces for adult learning courses
“I'm really pleased that finally after three years residents in Folkestone will be getting full and comprehensive library services back.”
Brian Collins, Deputy Leader of KCC, said: "I'm really pleased that finally after three years residents in Folkestone will be getting full and comprehensive library services back. We’re turning 14 Sandgate Road into a modern, flexible space that really works for the community. We’re looking forward to welcoming people into a building that’s been designed with comfort, accessibility and everyday use in mind.”
“This new hub has been designed to be bright, welcoming and easy to use, so whether people are popping in for help, events or a place to read or study, we hope they will feel at home.”
Georgia Foster, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “We know how important libraries and registration services are to residents, so bringing back a full range of services into the heart of Folkestone is a really positive step. This new hub has been designed to be bright, welcoming and easy to use, so whether people are popping in for help, events or a place to read or study, we hope they will feel at home.”
“These new spaces will give people the chance to learn new skills, build confidence and open doors to new opportunities in an environment that feels fresh and inspiring.”
Beverley Fordham, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Having modern and well‑equipped classrooms right in the town centre makes a real difference to adult learners and it is fantastic to see work is nearly complete. These new spaces will give people the chance to learn new skills, build confidence and open doors to new opportunities in an environment that feels fresh and inspiring.”
The temporary library currently within the Shepway Youth Hub building in Grace Hill will close on Saturday 2 May 2026 to allow for this part of the service to be moved to the new location. This is all part of the preparation works needed to get Folkestone Library and Community Learning Centre ready for opening day.
