Woden library will be closed from Wednesday 8 May until mid-August this year for significant upgrade works to a range of areas.

“During the closure, the library’s old gas heating, ventilation, and air conditioning will be replaced with a new electric system. In addition, the library’s bathroom facilities on the ground floor will be renovated, new LED lighting will be installed, an improved study area as well as repairs to the roof,” said Peta Harding, Executive Branch Manager of Libraries ACT.

“A variety of other smaller improvements will also be made like additional power and charging points, more network hubs for public PCs and various plumbing repairs.

“Libraries are a place of refuge during extreme weather. The heating and cooling upgrade will make Woden library a much more pleasant location to visit and the building will be significantly more environmentally-friendly.

“A full closure will be in place at the Woden library which means all facilities such as the HIVE studio, events, community rooms for hire and other services will not be available. The return chute will be open, and members of the community will be able to return items 24/7.”

From Monday 13 May, a pop-up library will be set up at 26 Corinna Street, behind Chemist Warehouse, that will be open Monday to Friday, 10am to 5:30pm.

“At this temporary pop-up location you will be able to collect your reservations, return items during opening hours and take part in programs such as Story Time, Giggle and Wiggle, Geri-Fit, and English Conversation Classes,” said Ms Harding.

“Public wi-fi is available nearby, however we are exploring options to have the wi-fi extended into the temporary pop-up library as soon as possible. For more information on where and how to access free public wi-fi, visit CBRfree public WiFi – Digital (act.gov.au).

The full closure of the Woden library was deemed necessary due to safety concerns. The public is encouraged to support the pop-up location or visit nearby branches in Tuggeranong, Erindale and Kingston. There are also a range of digital services available with a Libraries ACT membership.

The transition from gas to electricity at Woden library is part of the ACT Government’s Electrification of Government Gas Assets Program.

For more information on alternative arrangements during the closure of the Woden library please visit the Libraries ACT website at www.library.act.gov.au.