Te Kōputu a te Whanga a Toi Library and Exhibition Centre will temporarily close for essential building work from Monday, 31 March to Saturday, 5 April, reopening on Monday, 7 April at 9am.
During this brief closure, staff will undertake necessary building work and maintenance, and the facility will not be safe for public access.
These improvements include rerouting of electrical cables and power systems, repairs to timber seating, and other essential maintenance to ensure a safe environment for all library users.
"This work is vital for the ongoing safety and functionality of our library," says Jo Hunt, Manager Lifelong learning. "The nature of the electrical work and structural adjustments means we cannot safely accommodate visitors during this period. We've scheduled these necessary improvements to be completed as quickly as possible to minimise disruption."
In addition to essential safety work, the closure will allow for improvements to enhance the library experience including new wayfinding signage, reorganisation of the library layout for better access, shifting the reference collection adjacent to study areas, and the development of the young adult area.
"This work represents our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible library service for our community," Ms Hunt says. "While we recognise the temporary inconvenience, these improvements will significantly enhance the library experience for everyone when we reopen.”
The Te Kōputu Galleries will also be closed during this period for the de-installation of the Molly Morpeth Canaday exhibition.
Although the building will not be safe or accessible to the public during the closure, library staff will remain available via phone and email. Library members can utilise the click and collect service, allowing borrowers to request and collect materials. Library card holders also have access to a range of digital resources through the library website.
The community libraries in Ōhope, Murupara, and Edgecumbe will remain open for those seeking library services.
Library members are encouraged to:
• Stock up on materials before the closure
• Access digital resources, eBooks and audiobooks, using an online library account
• Utilise the click and collect service
• Contact library staff via phone 07 306 0509 or email library@whakatane.govt.nz
• Visit the community libraries in Ōhope, Murupara, and Edgecumbe