Residents in West Norwood are becoming increasingly frustrated about the status of their library – with some even being sceptical it will ever re-open.

The library, along with the adjoining Nettlefold Hall, was closed in June last year after callous vandals stole copper wiring from the roofs, causing substantial rain damage.

Repairs were delayed after asbestos was exposed and Lambeth Council has stated that until a condition survey is completed it is impossible to estimate an opening date.

A temporary library is open at Lambeth Resource Centre, but residents have complained it is insufficient.

The Facebook group Save West Norwood Library posted: “Our beloved library was not just about books. There really is no substitute.”

Concerned long-term resident, Lillian Bedford, said: “I can’t get about very well and I’ve had to go to charity shops to get my books. The library is a vital service for elderly people – if it didn’t reopen I wouldn’t know what to do.”

Councillor Florence Nosegbe, Lambeth Council’s cabinet member for culture, said: “We are working with the community to make sure a library service that meets the needs of residents in West Norwood is available as soon as possible.

“We appreciate the temporary library service currently available at the Lambeth Resource Centre is unsatisfactory and we are looking at alternative sites, like the Old Library, so a better library service can be provided.”