Service centre renovations at Procter Library to start

Work to incorporate the Kerikeri Service Centre into Procter Library and create a new multi-service space will kick off on Monday 10 March and run for about six weeks.

Parts of the Procter Library will be remodelled to integrate service centre operations, consolidating services into a single, council-owned facility. This cost-saving initiative, first announced by Mayor Moko Tepania during State of the Far North Address in November (2024), is expected to save ratepayers an estimated $250,000 over five years while improving service efficiency and enhancing the value and functionality of the building.

The downstairs area of the library will be redesigned to maximise space for customer service, expanding self-service options and providing access to collections, programming, and community activities. Three new conference rooms will also be added, enhancing space for meetings and small events. These changes will ensure a more efficient and welcoming environment for visitors.  Additionally, new workspaces for staff will be created upstairs to support service delivery.

"The council is committed to minimizing service disruptions and ensuring continued access to essential library services throughout the renovation period," says Ruben Garcia, Group Manager - Community and Engagement.

A pop-up library service will operate for the community during the entire works, when the main library building will be closed for safety reasons. Access to essential library services such as collecting items, a public internet terminal, self-checkout facility and a small collection to browse, will be available during this time. The pop-up service will operate from the community meeting room currently located near the Citizens Advice Bureau entrance, which faces Cobham Road.

Several other library services will operate from alternative locations:

• Afterschool programmes will run from the Plunket Rooms on Kerikeri Road during the closure, thanks to the generous support of the Kerikeri Plunket Clinic.
• JP clinics will move to a meeting room at the service centre’s existing location (ground floor of John Butler Centre) and run at the usual time - Wednesdays 11am to 1pm.
• Toy Library will unfortunately be closed during the works.

The Kerikeri Service Centre will operate as usual from its existing location on the ground floor of the John Butler Centre on Kerikeri Road. However, these facilities may be required to close for a day in April, to allow staff and services to transition to their Procter Library location. Advanced notice of any service closures will be confirmed and posted as the relocation schedule is confirmed.

In partnership with local contractors and community stakeholders, a locally based construction company has been appointed to carry out the rebuild, which is set for completion by Friday 25 April.

"These improvements will create a more functional and inviting space for the community, providing greater access to resources, technology, and flexible spaces for learning and engagement," Mr Garcia added.

Library staff appreciate the community’s patience during this exciting transformation and look forward to delivering enhanced services in a more accessible and modern space.