Newcastle Library renovations continue 

 

Newcastle Library is a haven for local bibliophiles. Whether by offering an escape from reality through the pages of fiction or by enhancing knowledge, the library is bookmarked as a literary port of call.

However, over recent months, book worms have been denied fuelling their literature addiction due to renovations. The Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Department claims while the initial completion date was earmarked for March 30, book lovers will now have to wait another three months.

“According to the Project Implementation Plan, the renovations will be completed by the end of May. The library will hopefully re-open to the community by the end of June, once the set-up and layout of the library is finalised,” the Communications Department explains.

But what is the cause of the delay?

According to the Communications Department, the project was delayed to various reasons. These reasons include:

• No building plans were available for the existing building.
• The excavations for the extensions commenced in March 2017, but due to the non-availability of site plans, an array of services was exposed during the trenching process. This included electrical cables, as well as sewer and water lines, all of which had to be re-routed.
• Adding to the woes, the sub-contractor abandoned the site on numerous occasions since the inception of the project. The services of this contractor have been terminated and MOTEKO: Construction, Cost Consultants and Project Managers has since taken over the construction.

While the delay in the project hampers the reading needs of Newcastillians, the Municipality’s Communications Department assures the renovations were needed.

“The Newcastle Library was built during the 1980s and was in dire need of general maintenance. The building also did not comply with regulations, in respect to emergency exits and other requirements for the elderly and disabled.”

Once the work is complete, the library will boast a larger study, as well as computer areas. These areas will be more isolated, thus resulting in less disturbances for students.

“The increased main library area will allow for improved display and setting of shelves and library materials. Overall, the extensions will improve accessibility and create a more user-friendly environment for library users.”

While waiting for the conclusion of the renovations at Newcastle Library, the community is urged to make use of the other libraries in town.  

“The Lennoxton and Fairleigh Libraries are located closest to the CBD area. All the libraries are equipped to assist the community with the same services rendered at the Newcastle Library. This includes membership applications and renewals for Newcastle Library members, and circulation of library material,” the Communications Department concluded.