As construction on the expansion of the Parkes Shire Library nears completion, library staff are preparing to embark on a new chapter in their contemporary, state-of-the-art space.
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The new architecturally designed indoor and outdoor library precinct will provide an additional 455 square metres of space, including an intergenerational 'Makerspace Studio', meeting rooms, quiet study areas, additional space for children's programs and places to connect with technology.
Construction began in July 2019, at which time Parkes Shire Library relocated to a temporary home at 2/250 Clarinda Street.
READ MORE: Major projects in Parkes CBD taking shape
The internal fit-out marks the final stage in the expansion project.
Parkes Shire Council's Cultural, Education and Library Services Manager Kerryn Jones said library staff are excited about making the move back to Bogan Street and into the newly renovated space.
"Thank you to our valued library members and wonderful community for their patience as we undertake the mammoth task of relocating all our resources back to Bogan Street," Ms Jones said.
"To facilitate this process, the library will be closed for four weeks."
The last day the temporary library will be open at the Clarinda Street premises will be Friday, September 11.
Ms Jones said they look forward to opening the doors to their new library precinct on Monday, October 12.
"Access to online collections and resources will still be available during the closure period," she said.
"We have also extended the loan period until October 20, as well as increased the number of items that can be borrowed."
The returns chute will continue to operate as normal at the main street location until September 20.
From September 21, book returns can be made at the Bogan Street location.
Throughout the closure period, council has allowed for a computer to be available for free public use at its administration office at 2 Cecile Street, Parkes.
This includes accessing the internet and Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint. Use will be limited to 30 minutes.
The branch libraries at Peak Hill, Trundle and Tullamore will continue to operate as normal.
The $2.2 million Parkes Shire Library Expansion Project is funded through the NSW Government's Regional Cultural Fund, Public Library Infrastructure Grant, and Parkes Shire Council.
