Refurbishment for Sittingbourne Library to Bring in Family Hub Services

Sittingbourne Library's main entrance with brown sliding doors and a ramp up to the reception

Kent County Council (KCC) will temporarily close Sittingbourne Library from Monday 3 November to carry out improvement works that will make the space better for library users and local families.

The closure will allow for a refurbishment of the library and the introduction of Family Hub services, bringing together support and resources in one convenient location.

The library will benefit from new furniture and a refreshed layout, making it a more comfortable and flexible space for reading, studying, registering a birth or death and community activities. Family Hub services to complement those already offered in the area will enable parents to drop in to find support, advice and group activities for children, alongside Health Visiting appointments.

Paul Webb is smiling for his headshot photo in front of the county hall steps

This is a really exciting and positive project for the people of Sittingbourne that will make a real difference for local people, enabling them to access more services they need from one building.

Paul Webb Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services

Paul Webb, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: "This is a really exciting and positive project for the people of Sittingbourne that will make a real difference for local people, enabling them to access more services they need from one building.

"The new layout and furniture will make the space more welcoming and easier to use – whether you’re popping in to borrow a book, find a quiet spot to study, or take part in a local activity. It’s good to see this investment in Sittingbourne and I’m looking forward to seeing the results."

The side of the main entrance to Sittingbourne Library. The sign is on the concrete tiles at the top of the building above a wall of windows.

Sittingbourne Library will temporarily close on Monday 3 November

Christine Palmer is smiling for his headshot photo in front of the county hall steps

Bringing Family Hub services into Sittingbourne Library means families will be able to access support in a familiar, friendly setting.

Chris Palmer Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services

Chris Palmer, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services, added: "Bringing Family Hub services into Sittingbourne Library means families will be able to access support in a familiar, friendly setting. Whether it’s advice, activities or simply someone to talk to, having these services in the same place as the library makes things simpler and more accessible for parents and carers. It’s a great example of how we’re making services work better for local communities."

While the library is closed, customers will be encouraged to visit nearby libraries – Teynham Library’s opening will be extended from 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday from 10 November. Queenborough Library will also be open from 9am to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 9am to 12pm on Saturdays from 10 November.

Alternatively, customers can explore Kent Libraries’ extensive digital services, including eBooks, audiobooks and online learning resources, available at www.kent.gov.uk/libraries.

The library is expected to reopen in early 2026, with updates shared via Kent Libraries’ social media channels and website.