May 29, 2020 - WONGALING LIBRARY REOPENS FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF STAGE ONE TO UPGRADE THE FACILITY

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Published
29th May 2020

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is pleased to advise the Wongaling Beach Library (including the Centrelink Access Point) in Mission Beach will reopen from 10am Monday 1 June 2020.

Customers are asked to practise social distancing and are advised a restricted number of people (10) will be allowed in side at any one time. Services will be restricted to collecting and returning of books only. 

Despite the easing of COVID -19 restrictions which saw libraries in Cardwell, Tully and Innisfail reopen last week, the Wongaling Beach Library remained closed to undertake stage one of works to upgrade the facility.

The overall upgrade will improve services at the Library including enhanced accessibility features and improved internal and external facilities.

Stage one of the Library upgrade included installation of a disability access ramp and new automatic doors.

Divisional Councillor Trudy Tschui said community consultation was undertaken from August to September 2019 to inform the concept design of the project. 

‘This included an online survey and pop up Library activations at Mission Beach Markets,’ she said. 

‘The Library Community Survey received a total of 137 responses with some very constructive suggestions for the refurbishment of the library,’ 

‘The Wongaling Beach Library is a well-used and loved space within the Mission Beach community and we are excited to see it enhanced.’ Councillor Tschui said. 

Prior to COVID-19 restrictions, Council was able to immediately action some requests like extending opening hours and reducing the price of printing and photocopying.

Community feedback combined with mandated requirements based on Council’s Service Agreement for operating a Queensland Public Library was taken into consideration when designing the upgrade.

The library refurbishment will be undertaken in stages and will include:

  • improved parking with marked bays and designated disability parking
  • disability access ramp and new automatic doors
  • new accessible restroom facilities
  • tinted windows to reduce glare and heat
  • a community meeting room with 24/7 access, with AV facilities and access to the kitchenette 
  • six public computer internet stations located away from the centre of the room
  • reconfiguration of the existing spaces to create more open space and a larger children’s library 
  • individual study areas including small tables located near power points
  • an refresh of the interiors with new wall painting, carpet, shelving and furniture including more comfortable seating
  • coffee and tea facilities for a small fee
  • improved, secure after-hours returns chute
  • improved collection items for lending through the collection renewal program.

It is anticipated further temporary closures will be required to facilitate future stages of the Wongaling Beach Library upgrade. 

Council is committed to keeping the community informed about the project and will provide advance notification of additional closures should they arise and as required.

The Wongaling Beach Library Upgrade is part of Council’s plan to provide infrastructure that meets current and future needs while also providing access to enhanced education and learning.

If you have questions about the Wongaling Beach Library Upgrade, please contact Council’s Customer Service Desk on 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au