Five years after the doors of the Old Library reopened, the former Andrew Carnegie Library on Lister Drive continues to stand as one of Liverpool’s most inspiring heritage success stories. Once derelict and at risk of permanent loss, the Grade II listed building has now been firmly re-established as a vibrant community hub at the heart of Tuebrook.
From Abandonment to Renewal
Built in 1905 and funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the library long served local residents until its closure in 2006 due to serious health and safety concerns. In the years that followed, the building suffered extensive damage: vandalism, theft, water ingress caused by stolen lead flashing, and widespread decay to its timber structure.
What could have become a ruin instead became a rallying point. Community determination—led by Lister Steps—sparked a campaign to restore and repurpose the building, securing its future for generations to come.
Want to work on your own mini restoration project? Crafty Arts do a great kit for modelling wood effects to get you started.
The £3.9 Million Restoration That Saved a Landmark
After a feasibility study in 2014, the project secured major funding in 2016 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Liverpool City Council, Hemby Trust, Eleanor Rathbone Foundation, and Power to Change.
H.H. Smith Construction carried out the sensitive restoration, drawing on both modern techniques and traditional craftsmanship to stabilise, repair, and transform the building.
Key works included:
- Repairing severe water and dry-rot damage
- Rebuilding internal structures and the grand staircase
- Lowering original high windows in the nursery area to create child-friendly natural light
- Clearing overgrown grounds and preparing for new landscaping
- Installing facilities to support modern community use while preserving historic character
What to know more about urban design? Reed offers a great course covering all aspects of architecture including restoration.
A Community Hub Flourishing Five Years After Opening
Since reopening, the Old Library has become an invaluable resource for the people of Tuebrook and surrounding areas. Today, it offers:
- A thriving nursery and childcare facilities
- A welcoming café
- Flexible event and meeting spaces
- Hot-desking and workspace for local freelancers
- Community events, workshops, and support services
- Opportunities for volunteering and local involvement
The surrounding grounds—once overgrown and inaccessible—now feature a mix of heritage gardens, green lawns, allotment planters, wild woodland areas, and imaginative outdoor play zones for children.
Want to bring some of the magic of the Old Library grounds to your own garden? Try this blue nesting house to encourage birds into your green space.
A Living Example of Heritage Done Right
Five years on, the Old Library stands as proof that historic buildings can be renewed, reimagined, and woven back into daily community life. What was once a crumbling, vandalised structure has become a beacon of pride, opportunity, and connection for Liverpool residents.
The restoration did more than save a building—it revived a community asset, preserved local history, and opened the door to new futures.
Looking for somewhere to stay if visiting Liverpool? YHA Albert Dock is a great option, The Old Library is only a short bus ride from the city centre.
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