Prestwich Library is on the move
Prestwich Library will be relocating temporarily to the Phoenix Centre to make way for the next phase of Prestwich’s regeneration programme. This next phase will focus on redeveloping the Longfield Shopping Centre, meaning the library must move out to allow planned demolition work to go ahead.
Bury Council and nationwide placemaker Muse are working together to regenerate Prestwich Village. In the future, a new larger library will be built, alongside community space.
Next steps - what will happen when?
The library will be closed while adaptation works to the Phoenix Centre are carried out. During this time library staff will pack up the library at the Longfield Centre and then unpack and set it up within the Phoenix Centre.
Knowing how important the library is to our community, please be assured that we will be doing everything possible to re-open the library within the shortest time.
- Prestwich Library at the Longfield Centre will temporarily close at 4.30pm on Friday 13 March 2026.
- Prestwich Library at the Phoenix Centre will open by the end of April 2026 (we will let you know the reopening date as soon as this can be confirmed).
Library services during the temporary closure
To take account of temporary closure, there will be some adjustments to our services.
Borrowed books
- Books borrowed from Prestwich Library after 20 February 2026 will have a loan period of 9 weeks so that you will be able to return the items after the Phoenix Centre is open.
Fines
- While the library is closed, there will be no Prestwich Library overdue fines.
Reserved books
- Customers will be able to reserve books online.
- Customers reserving books will be contacted by library staff to arrange a pick-up.
Alternative libraries
Our Bury, Radcliffe and Ramsbottom libraries will be open as usual during the Prestwich Library temporary closure.
About the temporary library at the Phoenix Centre
The Phoenix Centre is located within the easily reachable and accessible St Mary’s Park which is close to other community facilities, has good transport links.
Library services at the Phoenix Centre
There will be no change to opening times and the following core library services will be provided.
- Reading provision for all ages
- Free computer and Wi-Fi access
- Study and community space
- Children’s library activities
Please bear with us
We understand that this is a significant period of change for Prestwich Library users, but please bear with us while Prestwich’s regeneration is ongoing and the new larger library is built.
In the interim, before the new library is ready, we thank you for your patience and look forward to welcoming you soon at the Phoenix Centre.
More information about Prestwich Village regeneration
Visit www.yourprestwich.com or contact info@yourprestwich.com