Ōamaru Library will close for two weeks next month, to upgrade its heating system for winter

The library will be closed from Friday, May 12, to Monday, May 29, in order to replace a 50-year-old boiler system which has “reached the end of its serviceable life”, Waitaki District Council project and assets officer Toby Armour said.

“A new ducted heat pump system will be installed throughout the Ōamaru Library building to ensure that ratepayers have the most cost-effective and efficient heating and cooling system in this vital community facility.”

Waitaki Libraries manager Jenny Bean said while the closure will impact customers for the short-term, the change will make a more comfortable library experience year-round.

The Lower Thames St building will be a construction zone during this time, and health and safety requirements mean the public will not be able to borrow or make returns. Because the library no longer uses a fines system, there is no need to be concerned with overdue books, she said.

Borrowing and services in the community libraries will continue as per normal. There will be free rental books and DVDs in the week leading up to closure starting May 8, to thank customers for their patience. The library team will also be changing the due date for books to Friday, June 2.

Some library services will continue during the two weeks, such as issuing Skinny Jump Modems by phone, home services will continue as per usual, Wriggle and Rhyme will continue, and Maker Space Mondays will take place in the Scottish Hall.

All the library's online services will remain with the provision of E-Books, E-audio books, and online platforms.

“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to our customers, but we do hope that the new environment will be more efficient for ratepayers, and better for the health and wellbeing of library customers,” Jenny said.

The work is funded through the annual plan process approved for 2022-2033.