The Oamaru Public Library will shut its doors for a month to allow for a long-awaited internal makeover.
Readers are being encouraged to stock up on books before the library closes from February 16 to March 16 inclusive for stage two of its building refurbishment.
Stage one was completed last year with the rejuvenation of the workroom and stack room. From now until February 15, the public will be able to borrow more books than usual to carry them through the refurbishment.
Library manager Lorraine Weston-Webb said while the temporary inconvenience was regrettable, practical steps had been taken to lessen the impact on the public.
The decision to close was made after exploring other options including setting up a temporary library. The costs proved prohibitive and would have eaten into the funds available for the refurbishment.
The refurbishment was long overdue, the library having had little attention since it was built more than 30 years ago, she said.
A temporary room for reading newspapers and magazines will operate in the Blind Foundation Hall, behind the library, in Steward St. It will be open on most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to midday and will also offer second-hand books for sale.
Return items can be handed in at the hall during those hours or to the library by using the after-hours return slots. They may also be returned at the Palmerston library.
Stage two will cost $150,000 with the total upgrade of $269,500 funded by reserve funds earmarked for the project in 2005.
The library will reopen on March 17 with shelf stacking ongoing until Easter. Reopening celebrations are planned for March 26-29.
