Libraries  |  6 Sep 2022

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The popular Papanui Library is closing for six weeks for refurbishment and a change of layout.

The library will close from Monday 19 September and reopen on Monday 31 October 2022. The NZ Post and Council Customer Service Desk will remain open as normal, 9am–5pm, Monday–Friday.

Head of Libraries and Information Carolyn Robertson says the work at Papanui Library is part of Christchurch City Council’s 10-year refurbishment programme for its libraries.

“Papanui Library is one of the busiest libraries in our network, and we know the many customers will appreciate the spring refresh we have planned.

“When Papanui Library reopens, visitors will find a rearranged layout that will make things easier for customers, new flooring, roofing and bathrooms, internal and external painting, a renewed air conditioning system and landscaping.

“The customer service area received its own upgrade recently, so it doesn’t need a lot of work, apart from new carpet and painting, which we’ll do outside opening hours,” Mrs Robertson says.

A temporary wall will be installed between the library and customer service area, allowing visitors to continue to enter through the front door.

To make room for the worksite, the parking area directly behind the library will be closed off for this period, including the row of parking spots closest to the back of the library. The rest of the carpark will stay open as normal.

During the closure, items cannot be returned to Papanui Library. However, they can be left at Council libraries around the city and on Banks Peninsula. The nearest alternatives are Fendalton Library, Redwood Library and Ōrauwhata: Bishopdale Library.

From 19 September, any hold items requested for pick-up at Papanui Library will instead be available at Fendalton Library, unless another site is requested.