CROWTHORNE Library has closed until further notice after a flurry of rats attempted to enter the building.
It shut its doors last Thursday to put pest control measures in place to deal with an increased number of rodents that had tried to access the library.
The work, which is required on health and safety grounds, will be carefully planned and carried out by specialist pest control contractors.
A spokesperson on the Crowthorne Library Facebook page said they are treating the issue very seriously.
They added that they are taking “prompt action” to control the situation and prevent increasing numbers.
Fiona Atkinson, library services manager, said this issue may have been caused by nearby construction work disturbing the rats’ usual environment.
“We are liaising with pest controllers to find a humane way to prevent the rats from returning,” she said.
“A full survey of the drains is being carried out and we expect special valves will be fitted to the drains to stop the rodents from gaining further entry.”
Ms Atkinson has thanked residents for their patience during this time.
She added: “Our priority is to resolve this issue as quickly as possible, so the library can be safely reopened and provide a welcoming hub for the local community.”
All loans can be returned to any other Bracknell Forest library.
Events scheduled to take place at Crowthorne Library will be moved to Sandhurst Library.
For more details, or for updates, visit bracknell-forest.gov.uk or contact Sandhurst Library on 01252 870161.
