THE COLLIE Public Library is in the midst of a face lift; aiming to bring people out from the cold and into a world of discovery.
The Wittenoom Street facility recently installed a new layer of carpet and added a new coat of paint to the ceiling.
Collie Public Library manager Alison Kidman said the refurbishments helped to usher in a new era for the facility.
“With an average of a hundred people going through the doors each day, Collie Public Library aims to promote and deliver free, universal access to information and ideas across a range of formats,” she said.
“In a rapidly changing world, it is vital that the library keep pace with global developments and trends, in order to better serve the community and respond to changing customer needs and expectations.”
Last year, the library installed a new roof with improved insulation designed to decrease heating costs.
Ms Kidman said the previous layer of carpet had been worn, stretched and had presented dangerous trip hazards.
She said the new coat of paint has repaired water damage, that occurred before the roof had been installed, and has illuminated the area.
The library and the Shire of Collie have planned to refurbish the front counter area designed to provide inquiries and circulation desks with improved universal access, greater storage capacity and more ergonomic work stations.
The staff have also planned to upgrade the young adult area with improved furniture and fittings.
The facility has looked to fit teleconferencing facilities into the library meeting room for general community use, thanks to South32 grant funding.
Ms Kidman said the library has recognised the community’s immeasurable role in supporting the facilities.
“Biennial surveying by the Shire indicates that the public library is extremely valued by the community as a whole, and these improvements will help to maintain its relevance and effectiveness as a vital community hub," she said.
