Partial opening of Dickson Library from 6 July to provide limited services


Released 28/06/2018

Transport Canberra and City Services advises that the Dickson Library will partially reopen to the public next week, Friday 6 July 2018, to provide locals with limited access to library services.

From next Friday Canberrans will be able to pick up requests, borrow and return books from a limited collection, use public computers and access newspapers and other resources at the Dickson Library during normal operating hours. The external return chutes will also be operational at this time.

A large section of the library will not be accessible to the public and will be boarded up to allow works to safely continue. This arrangement is expected to be in place for approximately another six weeks.

The water damage at the library is more substantial than first identified and this partial closure will allow additional works to be undertaken including replacement of some of the flooring and improvements to subfloor ventilation. These rectification works can be safely completed while the library is open for partial use.

Prior to the start of the rectification works and the decision to close the library during the works, consideration was given to the potential for risk associated with bonded asbestos. Asbestos is only present in bonded sheeting in the library’s ceiling. All upcoming works will not disturb the ceiling area.

As water damage caused the required works, testing has also been undertaken for mould. All public areas have been tested as a precaution and the levels of mould were not above normal and deemed safe.

Subsequent testing has found mould present in the subfloor and the improvement works will include professional cleaning of these areas.

The ACT Government apologises for the inconvenience the temporary closure of the Dickson Library has caused. We hope that this partial opening will assist the local community in accessing the services they need.

Libraries ACT will continue to investigate options for a temporary location to hold Story Time and Giggle and Wiggle sessions.

For enquiries about the library, phone 6205 9000 or visit the library website www.library.act.gov.au.

- Statement ends -

ACT Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email

Renee Gallo

6207 5743


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