Hamilton library reopening a boost for the city

Hamilton's Central Library will reopen on July 9 with events planned for the day. Photo / Terry Su

The reopening of the Hamilton Central Library on July 9 will be a massive boost for the city, says the chairwoman of the city council's community and services committee Councillor Paula Southgate.

The Central Library in Garden Place was closed in 2016 because of earthquake risks.

Last year the city council approved $635,200 to undertake seismic upgrades to the four-storey building and that work is almost complete.

"I think it is really great that the library will be opening again, and earlier than expected," Cr Southgate said.

"We've now seen that there is a demand for a library in a central location and that's great."

"We also now have money in our 10-year plan to do something with the entrance and open it up onto Garden Place," she said.

The council approved $200,000 for the improvement of the front areas and customer service areas.

For the reopening, the council has been holding a Design a Library Bag Competition, while also there are plans to host multiple events on reopening day.

"I just saw some of the bags designed by the kids and it shows the love and imagination that these kids have for the library, and how important it is," Cr Southgate said.

The public will not see many changes to the building upon reopening, as most of the earthquake strengthening work and upgrades are in staff-only areas.

Deputy Mayor Martin Gallagher said that on behalf of the city the council apologised for the delay in getting the building open.

"The council wanted to see if there were any alternatives to the current central location, we went through that, but no, I am really looking forward to the reopening," Mr Gallagher said.

City libraries director Rebecca Whitehead said she was pleased with the work that had been done.

"Children and families are among our most enthusiastic supporters, so we're pleased to be able to involve them directly in our re-opening day events and activities."