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Library – a new building or upgrade?
The Library is the premier cultural and education facility in Wanganui. A long overdue upgrade in facilities is needed to provide more space for users and collections, to meet the growing demand and changing needs of the community and to meet national standards. The Davis and Alexander Library services would also be integrated, creating operational efficiencies and improved service. If the project proceeds, it will also provide the impetus for the Alexander Library building to act as an additional exhibition area for the Sarjeant Gallery.
There are two project options available to address the requirements of the library. If you would like to see the library redeveloped, you must also indicate on your voting paper which development option you choose:
Extending the existing Davis Library
The existing Davis Library will be redeveloped, keeping the same Queens Park footprint of the current building but gaining a purposedesigned second storey by adding two new wings on either side, with a higher glazed pavilion in the centre. The northern frontage will be enhanced, with views to the river and mountain, and a high canopy roof over the courtyard. The building will also have a seismic upgrade.
Building a new library
A new library will be built on a central city site. Offering upgraded facilities and increased space, it will provide a new iconic building in the Central Business District. Increased digital and technology services will be provided and the location will encourage increasing use
Economic and social benefits
- Providing improved education and information services to Wanganui
- Space to increase the size and quality of the library collection resulting in increased use
- Greater access tocomputer facilities as well as heritage research facilities
- Future proofing the building to meet safety standards
- A family-friendly environment that encourages literacy, a sense of discovery, life-long learning and a love of reading
Cost of project
Extending the existing Davis Library
Total capital costs $8.2m
Capital cost to Council $5m (assumes $3.2m in donations, community funding and sponsorship)
Operational (on-going) costs to Council $100,000Total additional cost to ratepayer $29.81 per year
Building a new library
Total capital costs $21.3m
Capital cost to Council $17.3m (assumes $4m in donations, community funding and sponsorship)
Operational (on-going) costs to Council $100,000Total additional cost to ratepayer $89.16
Davis Library Project HOW Project Total Design Cost $M Cost $M Construction 5.7 9.2 Fit out 1.5 1.6 Landscaping 0.2 0.7 Other 0 6.1 Inflation 0.8 3.6 Total 8.2 21.3 Construction New retail construction 0.0 0.9 Library structure 4.6 6.5 Design Fees 0.6 1.0 Contingency 0.5 0.7 Total 5.7 9.2 Other Site purchase 0.0 6.1 Images (Click to enlarge)HOW Project: The costs of building a new library are based on the costs developed for the Heart of Wanganui (HOW) project.
ground floor plan
first floor plan
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