Whyalla Public Library to undergo shelving and flooring upgrades
Whyalla City Council is improving its offering at the Whyalla Public Library and making it more accessible for all by installing new flooring and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant shelving.
With the original concrete floor installed 12 years ago and due for renewal, council has opted to install carpet over the concrete, creating a safer and more DDA-compliant surface, while significantly reducing the renewal cost and the time required to complete the project.
The style of the carpet also means small sections can be gradually replaced over time – rather than having to replace the entire flooring – helping minimise ongoing cost and increase its longevity and value for money.
With the library’s shelving also nearing the end of its lifespan, the upgrades have been aligned to minimise the impact on the community by reducing the length of closure required to complete the work.
The temporary closure is expected to start in early March and take most of the month, with council providing ongoing updates on timing over the coming weeks and throughout the project.
Mayor Phill Stone acknowledged the temporary disruption, but emphasised the long-term benefits of the project, stating, “These essential upgrades will create a more modern and accessible space for our community. We understand that closing the library may be inconvenient, but it was not feasible from a safety perspective to keep the library open while the upgrades were underway. Council is working with key community groups that utilise the library to find alternative options during the closure to help minimise any impact and ensure continuation of as many services as possible.”
Library Coordinator Natalie Williams added, “We encourage everyone to explore our digital resources, including Libby and BorrowBox, which offer eBooks and audiobooks. This is also a great time to rediscover books on your own shelves or even shop at a local second-hand store. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to a new space.”
During this time, all books will be placed in storage, and normal library services will be unavailable. However, Council has worked to provide alternative options for the community, including:
Book Returns – An extended borrowing period will be applied, allowing books to be returned after the library reopens.
- Library Programs – Programs such as Gigglepots will be postponed during the closure, but alternative community activities are available via Uniting Care. See flyer below.
- Public Computers – Advancing Whyalla (25-27 Ramsay St, Whyalla Stuart) will offer computer access from Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. For more information, call 8645 5999.
- Borrowing Books – While physical book borrowing will not be available, digital resources such as Libby and BorrowBox will remain accessible online.
- BorrowBox
- Libby
- Room Bookings – Businesses and community groups requiring meeting spaces are encouraged to seek alternative venues. Council can provide recommendations upon request.
- Justice of the Peace services – Eddie Hughes’ office located at Westlands Shopping Centre has JP services available from 9am-1pm Monday - Friday. Alternatively, you can view more JPs in your area at: https://whycc.au/3CAgXxs
The library is also holding a book sale from now until the closure, offering children’s books, fiction, and non-fiction titles for just 50 cents each. Come and collect some books to read over the closure period!
For more information, please contact the Whyalla Public Library on 8645 7891 or at library@whyalla.sa.gov.au
