Exciting changes at Castlemaine Library

Works to upgrade the Castlemaine Library will begin in July to make the space more accessible, safer and flexible for patrons.

The upgrade includes renewal of the structural floor, replacement of old shelves, installation of mobile shelves and other works.

Castlemaine Library Manager Jess Saunders said the team is very excited about the upcoming changes.

“This project is going to transform the library and will benefit the thousands of visitors who use our library spaces each month,” said Ms Saunders.

“Along with the flooring and shelving improvements we’ll also be making some other changes too, like keeping the returns chute open 24/7 and installing some fantastic booth seating along the windows looking out on Barker Street,” she said.

“We know the library is a much-loved space where plenty of people like to meet, work and study. These changes will make it even better and we can’t wait to see how it all looks!”

During the two-month project the library will be relocated to the Market Building in Mostyn Street.

“As the works will be noisy and disruptive we have decided to close the library for the duration of the project. This means that patrons can head along to our pop-up library at the Market Building and continue to enjoy the usual services,” said Ms Saunders.

“We’ll relocate most of our collection to the pop-up library and will offer access to computers, printing, wi-fi, along with our regular programs,” she said.

The pop-up library will share the building with the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) until early September.

During this time library hours will change slightly to align with the VIC opening hours. The Library will operate from 9.00am to 5.00pm weekdays, and 9.00am to 1.00pm Saturdays.

“Our team will continue to offer the same excellent service and we look forward to making the most of our temporary new home,” said Ms Saunders.

“We are also pulling together items for a time capsule to be located under the new floor of the library. We would love contributions, which you can drop off at the library between Monday 17 June and Monday 15 July,” she said.

The Phee Broadway Theatre will remain open for theatre performances during the works.

The project is funded by Mount Alexander Shire Council and the Victorian Government 2018 Pick My Project grant, as voted by members of the community. Thank you to everyone who voted to secure funding for the project!

For more information about this project check in with staff at the library or visit their website www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/castlemaineupgrade here you can sign up to receive updates.