Review of city’s libraries

A REVIEW of Dunedin Public Libraries will look into ways to reduce pressure on staff.

It will also cover how the service might be better set up for the future.

A meeting was held on Thursday to discuss challenges staff had been experiencing, a Dunedin City Council spokesman confirmed.

Staff absences because of Covid19 and other illnesses had sometimes put pressure on delivery of services, he said.

‘‘The meeting was to listen to the concerns and highlight that a review is about to start,’’ the spokesman said.

‘‘It’s too soon to discuss the details of the review, which are yet to be finalised, but we don’t envisage this will lead to job losses or a reduction in the number of books available at our libraries.’’

The role of libraries had expanded beyond just books, and the review would ensure Dunedin’s libraries continued to evolve, he said.

‘‘Nationally, the library sector is evolving to meet the changing needs of communities, and this review is an opportunity to look at what we do and how we do it while providing support for our staff.

‘‘The review will look for ways to reduce the pressure on staff while looking to the future for Dunedin Public Libraries.’’

The city council is also considering options for moving its archives, which cover the history of Dunedin’s houses, built heritage and land information.

They could be moved from the Municipal Chambers to the Dunedin City Library upper basement.

There have long been concerns about the potential for leaks from pipes in the existing storage area.