Library looks brilliant
Gordonvale Library’s fresh new look will officially debut at a special event on Monday. The $647,000 upgrade included the replacement of the carpet and ceilings, the addition of accessibility features and technology and the removal of internal pillars. Cairns Regional Council Division 1 representative Brett Moller said there was a new technology bench where members could set up their own laptops or tablets with charging points,
GORDONVALE Library’s fresh new look will officially debut at a special event on Monday.
The $647,000 upgrade included the replacement of the carpet and ceilings, the addition of accessibility features and technology and the removal of internal pillars.
Four new PCs have been added for public use, including two for kids.
Cairns Regional Council Division 1 representative Brett Moller said there was also a new technology bench where members could set up their own laptops or tablets with charging points to make use of the free community Wi-Fi.
“The new meeting room is equipped with teleconference facilities and this is available for community use. Not-forprofit groups can hire the room free of charge,” Cr Moller said.
“A self-check system has been added to make borrowing quicker and easier than ever.
“Even the return chute has gone hi-tech, now having a scanner installed to make it more secure.”
Inside the library, photographic wallpaper depicting local scenes adorn the walls and the exterior of the building has been rendered and landscaping added to complete the project.
Cr Moller said he was already receiving positive feedback about the refurbishment.
“We’ve already had a steady stream of visitors through the doors and the new look is making a big impression,” he said.
“I’d like to thank residents for their patience during the upgrade and welcome them back to their all-new library.”
The official reopening will be held from 10.30am. Refreshments will be provided. There will be cake and residents are welcome to attend.
A special children’s story time and craft afternoon will be held on Monday from 3-5pm. Bookings are not required.
Gordonvale Library opened on February 19, 1954, replacing the old School of Arts, which had been constructed in 1900.
At the time, it was the main library for Mulgrave Shire Council and consisted of two outdoor reading rooms – one for adults and one for children.
In 1996, a council customer service office, meeting room and councillor office were added but improvements to the library were not included at that time.
The library has about 65,000 visitors a year and stocks more than 7000 items.