Tale Of Woe For Kiama's New Library

Illawarra Mercury

Tuesday February 7, 2006

By WILLIAM VERITY

IF YOU want to borrow a book in Kiama, you will have to go to Nowra.

The library operated out of makeshift accommodation at the Kiama Showground Pavilion for almost a year until it closed completely last month to make way for the Kiama Show.

A new $3.2 million library building was originally due to open in late October, then mid-January, but will now remain shut until March.

Kiama Municipal Council general manager Michael Forsyth expressed his "bitter disappointment" at the delay, blaming the late delivery of materials.

"We have measures in place so people can access books from the Nowra library," he said.

Architects Fulton, Trotter and Partners have designed the renovations to take advantage of Kiama's picturesque surroundings.

The centrepiece will be an observation tower with views of Kiama harbour and the CBD.

A reading lounge will also have panoramic views, while a youth library will open out to a timber reading deck shaded by a historic 130-year-old fig tree.

"Once it is up and running, visitors will enjoy an impressive facility and a spectacular building," Kiama Mayor Sandra McCarthy said.

Borrowers should retain books until the library resumes service.

Gerringong library will also be shut until the new library opens.

© 2006 Illawarra Mercury

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