Ainsdale Library, which has remained closed to the public since 2025, is now being offered to community groups by Sefton Council. The building has been shut for more than 12 months after the previous tenant's 10-year lease ended.
New tenants are being sought for the site on Liverpool Road, alongside the former public toilet block, after the council decided to put forward four assets for fresh management. The library has closed twice before.
Four assets offered for community management
The other buildings being offered include Hesketh Park Conservatory in Southport, the community kitchen at Cambridge Road Adult Education Centre in Seaforth, Waterloo, and a single former public toilet block at Duke Street Park in Formby.
In October, Sefton Council approved a new Community Assets Policy to allow community groups to take over and re-purpose vacant council buildings.
History of the library
The library, previously known as Edda Community Arts and Library, was first closed in 2013 due to budget cuts, when it was operated directly by Sefton Council. It reopened in 2015 after the Bridge Inn Community Farm organisation refurbished and ran it as Edda Community Arts and Library.
It was partly used as a free, independent library, as well as hosting arts, drama and community events. But the library closed again in 2025 after Bridge Inn's 10-year lease ended, and it has remained shut ever since.
Who can apply and what is expected
Groups eligible to apply include not-for-profit organisations such as charities, community interest companies, community benefit societies, and voluntary organisations. While the council will retain ownership of the building, the successful group will be responsible for the venue's day-to-day management, maintenance and operation, under a lease or similar arrangement with the council.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, cabinet member for regeneration, economy and skills, said: “We know these buildings and facilities matter to our communities, and we’re keen to hear fresh ideas about how they can be run in a way that will benefit local people in the future.
“The Community Assets Process gives community organisations the opportunity to bring their skills, experience and ambition to these sites.
“We want to hear innovative, sustainable proposals that can unlock the potential of these assets and help them thrive for years to come.”
She said the council wanted to bring “opportunities for people, supporting volunteers, improving wellbeing and strengthening community connections.” Cllr Lappin added: “We know there are fantastic organisations across Sefton with the passion and expertise to make a real difference, and we look forward to seeing the ideas they bring forward.”
For more information on the community assets process, eligibility and application process, people can visit the Sefton Council website.
