Bancroft Library (Tower Hamlets Local History Library and Archives) building will not reopen to the public until the new year. Unforeseen delays have been experienced in the Phase 1 essential health & safety works currently under way. The relocation of stock within the building, cleaning of the collection storage areas and reconfiguration of the reading room is also likely to take longer than planned. They apologise for the inconvenience this extended closure will cause to their users and expect to re-open in mid-January 2011. They continue to offer a limited remote enquiry service by phone and email during the closure - call 020 7364 1290 or email localhistory@towerhamlets.gov.uk . Ann Middx Admin