The Bermuda National Library remains closed two-and-a-half months after it was scheduled to be reopened.

But Works and Engineering Minister CV (Jim) Woolridge promised yesterday that the public would be given the equivalent of "a brand-new building, if they will just be patient.'' The library, which has been closed for more than five months, was shut down on February 14 after asbestos was found in the ceilings.

Mr. Woolridge explained that Works and Engineering uncovered the asbestos when they went to install an elevator in the building.

"And the problem with old buildings is that you never know what you're going to find,'' he added.

Mr. Woolridge said that once construction began it was also discovered that the building needed structural changes and rewiring.

"I spoke with the architect (Wednesday), and they've been working feverishly to finish the job.

"But we just never expected to find those types of problems,'' he said.

Mr. Woolridge suggested the public utilise the Bermuda College Library and the Children's Library until the National Library is completed.

And he promised that the library would be reopened "very soon''.

The Bermuda Historical Society (BHS), which shares the building with the library, is poised to reopen its offices around the Cup Match holiday.

BHS president Andrew Bermingham said yesterday they are hoping to open the doors either the short week before Cup Match, or the Monday after Cup Match.

"Many tourists have approached us, trying to find out what's going on,'' said Mr. Bermingham.

"We're aggressively waiting to reopen -- this is our attempt to accommodate the tourists' requests,'' he added.

CV (Jim) Woolridge