The Dickson Library is to reopen tomorrow (6 July) to provide visitors with limited access to library services.
Transport Canberra and City Services said that from tomorrow, users would 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.
It said the external return chutes would 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,” the Directorate said.
It said this arrangement is expected to be in place for about 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,” the Directorate said.
“These rectification works can be safely completed while the library is open for partial use.”
It said that before the start of the rectification work, consideration was given to the potential for risk associated with bonded asbestos.
“Asbestos is only present in bonded sheeting in the library’s ceiling,” the Directorate said.
It said none of the upcoming works will not disturb the ceiling area.
“As water damage caused the required works, testing has also been undertaken for mould,” the Directorate said.
“All public areas have been tested as a precaution and the levels of mould were not above normal and were deemed safe.”
It said subsequent testing had found mould present in the subfloor and the improvement works would include professional cleaning of these areas.
