Liverpool City Council has allocated £250,000 to carry out essential repairs and environmental cleaning at Everton Library, paving the way for a detailed assessment on how the historic building can be redeveloped.
Built in 1896 by city architect Thomas Shelmerdine, the Grade II listed landmark is celebrated for its Jacobean and Arts and Crafts design. Known affectionately as the “Jewel on the Hill,” the library’s distinctive turret, glass-vaulted ceiling, and intricate ironwork make it one of Liverpool’s architectural treasures and a proud reminder of the city’s pioneering public library movement.
After more than two decades of decline, the building has fallen into significant disrepair. The new investment will allow immediate remedial works to make it weatherproof and environmentally clean, ensuring it can be safely accessed and properly surveyed for future restoration.
A key part of the project will be a specialist condition survey, a conservation-led inspection that will record the fabric of the building, identify defects and causes of decay, and set out priorities for repair in a way that respects its historic character and original materials.
Liverpool City Council’s funding marks an important step towards bringing Everton Library back into use as a cultural and community hub. Once restored, the building could play a major role in supporting local regeneration – creating jobs, offering training and digital skills opportunities, hosting community services, and serving as a base for creative and educational initiatives.
This investment also strengthens the area’s “Golden Triangle”, linking Everton Library, St George’s Church, and Everton Park, and reinforces the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage while driving inclusive growth across its neighbourhoods.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, said:
“Liverpool City Council is being innovative and inspirational in the use of our many heritage buildings, and creating a catalyst for regeneration.
“This investment is a clear sign of how important the council views cultural assets such as Everton Library. The building has played a vital role in the history of the Everton community, and thanks to the work that will be carried out, it will have a crucial role in the future too.”
Everton North Councillor, Portia Fahey, said:
“I am absolutely delighted to hear that the council are investing in cleaning and securing Everton Library. This is the first page in a brand-new chapter for the library, as we celebrate 129 years of The Jewel on the Hill.
“Many residents have fond memories of the library and will be thrilled to know that the building is being looked after by the Council and will continue to be part of the Everton heritage story.”
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