New outdoor space a breath of fresh air for Burpengary Library
Published 12 January 2022
An exciting new extension is set to take shape at Burpengary Library, creating a fresh space for discovery, learning, play and inspiring imaginations.
Council has awarded the tender for the project to local contractor The Trustee for Hill Family Trust, trading as Kimini Constructions Pty Ltd.
The project will see the existing courtyard removed and the roof replaced by a new weatherproof structure. Three fresh and modern separated rooms for meetings and children’s activities will be constructed, with an operable wall making for a flexible space. Vinyl flooring, air conditioning and ceiling fans, as well as planting, will complete the overhaul.
Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Peter Flannery said the new space will deliver on Council’s vision for thriving communities into the future.
“This new outdoor area will further enhance the already fantastic services at Burpengary Library, adding a flexible space that can be enjoyed by adults and kids, encouraging them to visit more often,” Mayor Flannery said.
“It’s been great to welcome people back to our libraries after things went ‘virtual’ during the toughest times of the pandemic.
“We look forward to Kimini creating a more usable, accessible and customer friendly space, enhancing growth with library services to meet future community demand.
“Projects like this one underpin our Regional Community Wellbeing Strategy, which will guide Council’s role in supporting resilient, healthy, inclusive and connected communities for the next 20 years.”
Division 2 Councillor Mark Booth said the upgrade was long “overdue.”
“Libraries are no longer just somewhere to loan out books, they’ve got multiple uses in this day and age,” Cr Booth said.
“The objective is to optimise the existing courtyard and support the provision of additional programming at the library.
“It’s wonderful to see our libraries full of visitors again now that COVID-19 restrictions have eased.
“While we had a huge uptake in digital loans during the height of the pandemic, we want to see more people back exploring the shelves, and connecting with others in the community through our extensive range of programs and activities, especially during the school holidays.
“I am excited about seeing this project coming to life at Burpengary Library in the New Year.”
Construction will commence in February 2022 to accommodate peak usage times for the library, and is estimated to take 7 months to complete, weather-permitting.