Library Construction to Start Next Week

Published on 15 August 2022

Work on the Mansfield Library refurbishment will start on 29 August with external plumbing changes outside the library in Collopy Street, affecting the front footpath.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said while there will be some disruption to library services during the refurbishment, the works program has been designed to minimise this and deliver an improved library space by April 2023.

“The new and improved larger layout will include a modernised internal fit out, a bigger children’s area, spaces for socialisation, study, remote work and room hire,” Cr Tehan said.

“During construction, our library team will be available by phone in business hours, Tuesday to Friday, and all the online resources will still be accessible,” he said.

“There are three stages in the construction. In the first stage which runs until mid-September, there should be minimal disruption to opening hours.

In Stage 2, the library will close for a few days to enable site establishment such as the building of internal walls.  With a slight change to the internal layout, the library will continue to occupy the Collopy Street building until mid-December.

Cr Tehan said the Stage 2 temporary changes include:

• Footpath closure requiring pedestrians to walk on the road (traffic barriers and a ramp provided).
• The main library entrance will be closed. Visitors will need to use the rear door, with a ramp providing access for all.
• Entrance to the carpark from Collopy Street will be closed and traffic made one way.
• Of the three existing carparks, two will permanently become disabled carparks.
• There may be short closures when noise levels and other disturbances are excessive.

“We will work with the builders to provide as much notice to the public as possible of any closures.”

“As part of Stage 3, from mid-January, the Collopy Street building will be closed to the public and a limited library service will run from the Visitors Information Centre

The Realising Mansfield Library’s Potential project, including the design and construction of the refurbished library, was made possible with $543,511 of funding provided through the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure program. 

The community can stay up to date with progress via Mansfield Library Victoria’s Facebook page, or for further information please contact Mansfield Shire Council on (03) 5775 8555.