It is Grade II listed on account of its architectural quality and its role in the development of Liverpool's public library service.

The building suffered severe vandalism during 2009 and emergency works had to be carried out to limit the damage caused by theft of rainwater goods and smashing of rooflights.

The Beacon Lane corner has squat octagon with 4 columns, iron gates, ornamented stone panels, upper windows, and concave sided turret short spire.

[4] In November 2018 it was announced that a local property and hotel group were interested in restoring the building for use as a youth centre and community hub, but the plans came to nothing.

[5] The council signed off £920,000 worth of essential repairs in December 2021, but local campaigners claim that the building is still suffering from problems with the roof and windows and with water ingress.