RESTORATION work is underway on the historic roofs of Liverpool’s Central Library.

A 67-week restoration project began last week with scaffolding going up to support a temporary roof.

The tent-like scaffolds will remain in place until the autumn to protect the building while work is carried out on the original roofs below. The roofs of the Hornby and Oak Libraries require re-covering with blue Welsh slate and a new zinc roof will be added to the dome of the Picton library.

All three libraries will also have new guttering and substantial masonry repairs to the façade.

Specialist restoration firm William Anelay Ltd is undertaking the work as well as extensive internal repairs at the library.

They will carry out plaster work repairs, redecoration and the bookcases will be restored.

William Anelay’s Managing Director Vernon Carter said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Shepherd Construction on such a major project to extend the life and expand the facilities of a building of such importance.”

The £50m redevelopment of the Central Library began last autumn and is scheduled for completion by spring 2013.

Parts of the building date from 1860 and are Grade II-listed.

Other sections built in the 1950s and 1970s following World War II bomb damage now suffer from damp and a leaking roof and will be rebuilt to make the most of the available space including a new purpose-built home for the Liverpool Record Office.

The redeveloped Central Library will also include a new children’s library and IT facilities.

Under the PFI project, private firms will complete £54m of work and the taxpayer will ultimately foot a £180m bill, including maintenance, over 25 years.