Oxford library/service centre upgrade

The Oxford library and service centre is getting a major upgrade.

As a result of the earthquakes of 2010/2011, the Oxford service centre suffered some structural damage. To keep the building at the preferred safety level of 67% of New Building Standard, an interim measure of applying large concrete supporting blocks to the exterior was put in place. 

Permanent strengthening work was a necessity.

A team of architects and engineers recommended that a partial demolition of the eastern section of the building would provide a safer, long term solution. 

The eastern side of the building, currently used for library materials, will be demolished and rebuilt. This will enable the provision of more windows, including a north-facing aspect. It will also allow for more usable floor space by removing two storage rooms and a toilet. 

Rebuilding the library section will allow for more natural light into the building - the proposal is for north-facing windows which will potentially provide a very good reading area. 

Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2016, and the estimated completion date is May 2017.

During the reconstruction period (August 2016 - May 2017), the Oxford library and service centre will be operating from Pearson Park Pavilion. The current Oxford library and service centre will close at 5 pm on Wednesday 3 August 2016 in preparation for the move to the Pearson Park Pavilion. The library and service centre will reopen at the pavilion at 8.30 am on Tuesday 9 August 2016.

View the floor plans (pdf, 167.8 KB).