A library has been forced to remain shut until “further notice” due to heating problems.

Chatham Library and Community Hub in Riverside Gardens has been shut for two weeks due to “unforeseen circumstances”.

In a social media statement, Medway Libraries apologised to residents for “any disruption” the closure has caused.

It read: “Due to unforeseen circumstances Chatham Library will be closed until further notice.

“We are working to get this resolved as soon as possible and will update our social media page as soon as we have more information.”

The library has been shut since Friday, December 22.

Medway Council, who run the service, say this has been due to problems with the heating.

Cllr Tris Osborne, who represents Rochester East and Warren Wood, took to social media to give a further update.

He said: “The oil tank used to heat the facility failed in December and has now been repaired. We are due oil for delivery before reopening to heat the building.

“Appreciate residents being patient on this situation.”

It is anticipated the building will reopen to the public by the end of the next week.

In the meantime library users can renew items by phone on 01634 337799 or via their website. Items can also be renewed at Gillingham Library and Rochester Library.

Yesterday (December 5) Medway Libraries also announced another closure – albeit a temporary one.

A post read: "Due to unforeseen circumstances Rainham library will remain closed until 1.30pm today.

“We apologise for any disruption this may cause, the nearest libraries are Twydall Library and Wigmore Library.”

In total, there are 15 public libraries and two mobile libraries in Medway.