Solution found for Kaeo library

It should be business as usual again for Kaeo public library users within the next three to four weeks.

Arrangements have been made with the Whangaroa Museum & Archives Society to temporarily relocate the Kaeo library to the ground floor of the former Kaeo Post Office building. Initially a room will be used adjoining the new Kaeo Service Centre operation, pending plans to fully integrate the library with the museum facilities in the building.

"This is an excellent compromise which means normal library services will be back on track much sooner than previously anticipated," Libraries & i-Sites Manager Bronwyn Hunt said today.

"The council is extremely pleased at the offer made by the museum society and the prospect of a long-term positive working relationship involving an integrated library-museum service," she said.

Whangaroa museum society President, Derek Ellis, said although it was disappointing that structural concerns had prevented the Kaeo library from locating to the upper floor of the old Post Office building, the association was keen to ensure library services were retained at Kaeo.

 

"The museum is a community facility. So is the library. We will find a way to share the space with museum displays and the requirements for the library. The management committee believes that with careful planning and use of space, both the museum and library can not only be accommodated, but can enhance the attractiveness of each other," he said.

 

Derek Ellis said it was opportune during the restoration of Kaeo's historic Post Office building, to plan the integration of the community library with the museum for the enduring benefit of the Whangaroa community.

"We shall install library services on a limited basis initially, and build up in conjunction with displays of museum artifacts, creating a result of which we can all be proud," he said.

 

The library's book stock has been in storage at Kaikohe since last week after plans to relocate to the first floor of the old Post Office struck a structural hitch.

Until the temporary move has been completed, library patrons can continue to access books via the council's on-line library catalogue, by calling the Kaikohe or Procter Libraries, or by a computer link to the on-line service at the Kaeo Service Centre.