New chapter as library opens for all

After years of planning and preparation, Marlborough’s new library officially opens its doors today marking a new chapter in the region's history.

The $20 million purpose-built library, gallery and cafe on Blenheim’s High Street will welcome members of the public from midday today.

It marks the culmination of a decade-long vision which began as a dream for previous councils.

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor says it gives Marlburians access to so many new features.

“It’s a building for all generations to use and we picture it being the living heart of the community as a fantastic place to hang out, try new things and meet up with friends and those with common interests.

“This is one of the most significant projects ever undertaken by Council and has been the work of many hands.”

Staff have been busy shifting into the new High Street premises and becoming familiar with the bigger facility.

Libraries Manager Glenn Webster says staff are “very excited” about the opening and he encourages people to visit once the doors opened at midday.

“We kept in mind the different needs of all of the people that will be using this facility during our setup, like keeping the things our senior Marlburians want to use on the ground floor to make them as accessible as possible”.

“Libraries are so much more than just books now, and the co-location with the Art Gallery gives even more reasons for people to come in, use the building and have everything they want in one place.

“We’re thrilled that we have so much more space and variety of interests for everyone”.

Community Learning and Engagement Coordinator Duncan Mackenzie says the new space will be in demand.

“Come along, feel comfortable and welcome and get a sense of belonging no matter what your interests are.

“It’s a magical space without people, and it will be even more magical when passionate Marlburians begin to come in. It’s a space to be used by all.”

The $20 million dollar complex was a ‘shovel ready’ project and allocated $11 million in funding from the Government’s Kānoa Regional and Economic Development Unit.

Library staff have also revealed the library will also be open for longer at weekends following an agreement with council.

The longer hours mean a change to rosters and terms and conditions for staff, something council and members of the New Zealand Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi have been working together on for nearly two years.

"The opening of this library is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our staff,” says PSA Union Delegate Tania Miller.

“From day one we knew this new library would require more staff and expanded hours and our members worked closely together to ensure we got the resources needed to expand staff and protect those conditions."

The new library and art gallery was officially acknowledged by tangata/mana whenua Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Rārua and Ngāti Toa Rangatira at a dawn blessing last month.

Art Gallery Director Cressida Bishop is also looking forward to welcoming visitors with a special exhibition, Threads of Whātonga, which will open next week.

It includes works from the gallery’s collection and mana whenua exhibitions held at the former Millennium Public Art Gallery to mark significant events.

Art works on show were gifted to the former premises and are part of the gallery’s permanent collection.

Nadine says today is a milestone moment for Marlborough.

“The project was initiated in 2013 as part of the ‘Growing Marlborough’ process, which found that our public art gallery and library facilities were no longer adequate.

“I’d like to thank previous councils - particularly former mayors John Leggett and Alistair Sowman, former deputy mayor Terry Sloan and former councillor Cynthia Brooks for their foresight in pushing the project forward.

“I’d also like to thank architects Warren and Mahoney and Robinson Construction for their superb work that has resulted in this magnificent building, which will serve Marlborough for generations to come.”

The library will be officially named at a special ceremony on June 30.