A MASSIVE renewal of Clydebank Library is underway for the first time in decades.

The work to spruce up the historic building will include improving its appearance and access, particularly for residents with disabilities.

But it will also carry out badly needed overhauls of plumbing and electrics and work on the roof.

The £500,000 project is due to be completed in early 2018, confirmed a council spokesman.

Provost William Hendrie said: “Our library is a well used public asset and not only will these renovations make the library a more pleasant space for people to use, but they will resolve a number of long standing issues with the internal plumbing and electrics.

“Most importantly, we are making modifications to ensure that everyone, regardless of their level of mobility, will be able to access every floor of the library. Clydebank Library is for the whole community and I hope that everyone can enjoy the improvements we are making.”

The lift will be extended to all three floors and the roof restored on the B-listed building. There will also be landscaping, signage and some internal changes carried out.

A West Dunbartonshire Council spokesman added: “This £500,000 project will make Clydebank Library a more attractive location for visitors, as well as vastly improving disabled access. We appreciate the patience of library users while this work is ongoing and we anticipate only having to close for very short spells throughout.”

Clydebank MSP Gil Paterson said: “Clydebank Library is a stunning old building, so I could not be happier that these restoration works are taking place. The library is a centre of learning, especially for young people, and holds many important records of Clydebank’s history. This is great news for the town.”