3rd May, 1996. Celebrating the re-opening of the Rochdale Canal through Sowerby Bridge with the construction of Tuel Lane Lock, now the deepest inland waterway lock in the UK at 19ft 8½inches, connecting to the Calder & Hebble Navigation.
The library is on the ground floor with the concert hall behind. The former council chambers were on the first floor and the swimming baths are situated at the rear. It is grade 2 listed building built 1888-89.