Bibliophiles in Dubbo will be rejoicing on Monday as the refurbished Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo branch reopens its doors.
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From the carpet to the ceiling lights the library has received a full makeover.
“There’s two new meeting rooms now and a new local studies room. There’s a larger children’s area and there’s all new furniture, it’s all been repainted, carpeted, there’s new lighting, new ceiling, new security, new fire detection, the air-conditioning’s been improved,” Macquarie Regional Library director John Bayliss said.
The library has also added new technological features.
Mr Bayliss said books would automatically be returned when they’re put in the new hole and there was a self-checkout for people borrowing items.
“People will still borrow from the circulation counter but a lot of people are quite use to checking out their groceries and things, and that again will just quicken that process up. Not that we don’t want to be talking to people but a lot of people are happy just to come in, get their things and go,” he said.
“All the staff have had input into the creation of the refurbishment. And we’re still all working together to make it so it flows really well, importantly from a customer point of view but also for the staff to work in as well.
“We put a lot of time into thinking about the layout because we’d like people to explore the collection and what we have available.”
Mr Bayliss said there was a great buzz among the staff.
“Everyone is really looking forward to seeing the customers again because there’s a lot of regulars who come in and they have that relationship with the customer and the staff,” he said.
“And showing it off I guess. Even though there’s still some more new furniture to arrive, but that’ll be another surprise for people in two or three weeks.”
The renovations are expected to be fully completed before the talk on the Battle of Fromelles and the arrival of Shakespeare’s first folio.
Renovations were jointly funded by a NSW State Public Libraries Infrastructure Grant of $200,000 and a contribution of $700,000 from Western Plains Regional Council.
An official opening will be held during Children’s Book Week on August 22.
“Thanks to the building contractor and all the sub-contractors who have worked hard to make it happen. And also thanks again to Michael Brennan for allowing us to work out of that temporary location,” Mr Bayliss said.
The library will be open for business at 10am on Monday.