Merle van de Klundert, president of the Dunedin Public
Libraries Association, says the former chief post office
building in the Exchange would be "a wonderful library
building". Photo by Jane Dawber.
The Dunedin Public Libraries Association has come out in
support of plans to move the library to the former chief post
office building in the Exchange.
But that move would not change the association's views on the
need for a new library in South Dunedin, president Merle van
de Klundert told the annual plan hearings committee.
The council confirmed last year it would investigate moving
the library to the former chief post office building..
The council had signed a joint venture feasibility agreement
with building owner South Canterbury Finance to investigate
the CPO's potential, and Otago Regional Council chairman
Stephen Cairns confirmed the building was an option to house
his council, after it decided to shelve plans for a new
headquarters on the waterfront.
The plan meant the city had the opportunity to investigate a
use for the building that could revitalise the Exchange, and
add to a growing heritage precinct, including the Dunedin
Railway Station, Chinese Garden and Otago Settlers Museum.
Late last year, council property manager Robert Clark said
the plans for the building would be released this year.
Mrs van de Klundert said yesterday the former chief post
office would make "a wonderful library building".
The basement, ground floor and first floor would be ideal for
the library's needs for the next 30 years.
Parking at the existing library was a problem, she said,
something that could be overcome with the move.
"Also, it could provide better facilities for a children's
library, staff offices, wheelchair access, improved toilets
and so on."
The need for a new library in South Dunedin, though, remained
a priority when considering the demographic picture of the
area.
"Even if a shift from Moray Pl to the old CPO building were
to be made, this would not change our view that South Dunedin
deserves a library."
Mrs van de Klundert said there was a need for increased
capital for new collection purchases, though the library
exceeded New Zealand standards in many respects.
Mr Clark has promised to update the Otago Daily Times on the
issue next week.
david.loughrey@odt.co.nz
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