MEDIA RELEASE Friday 15 August 2003

South Christchurch Library and Service Centre opening next Saturday

Everyone is invited to attend the opening of the new South Christchurch Library and Service Centre at 10am on Saturday 23 August.

Mayor Garry Moore will officially open the building, after which the first book will be issued from the library and everyone will have a chance to explore one of the most exciting Christchurch public buildings to have been constructed in recent years.

Councillors, local MPs, community representatives and those involved in the building project will also be part of the day’s activities, which will include tours of the complex, entertainment and a chance to sit back and soak up the atmosphere in this purpose built community facility. The Learning Centre that is also part of the complex will be officially opened in September.

Construction of the $5.8 million Warren and Mahoney designed building began in September 2002 and is being completed this month by Mainzeal Property and Construction.

It will benefit 45,000 South Christchurch residents, by providing an ultra modern library, Council Service Centre, meeting rooms, a Learning Centre and the first café to be included in a South Island public library.

The picturesque site by the Heathcote River was formerly occupied by the Beckenham Service Centre, which was demolished to make way for the new building. Staff have been temporarily located at 148 Colombo St.

Sustainability, a key theme of the complex, was requested by the community during the Christchurch City Council’s consultation on the building. Among its special features is a moat that cools air circulating through windows as well as creating island like patio decks for library readers to take their books in fine weather.

To see the other extraordinary features of the new South Christchurch Library and Service Centre come to the opening on 23 August or join in one of the many activities happening at the library during opening week.

ENDS

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