Work will start in the coming week on the next stage of the Breathing new life into our whare pukapuka project, with a contract signed with Brosnan to refurbish and expand the Masterton District Library.

Demolition in the interior of the existing building will mark the beginning of the transformation from a traditional book repository into a true community hub.

The enhanced library will feature a community classroom and lounge, meeting rooms, dedicated workroom, coffee kiosk, and co-working area – and plenty of books!

The existing building was no longer fit for purpose, with its size and layout limiting opportunities.

The budget for the project, approved as part of the 2024-34 Long-Term Plan, is $10.75 million, spread across three years. The new library space is expected to be completed by spring 2027.

The library has secured $418,000 from the Lottery Community Facilities Fund Te Tahua Hapori Ngā Whakaurunga to provide a lift, and enable installation of solar panels and improvements to outside spaces that were not included in the original project budget.

The fit-out of the community lounge and classroom is being supported by Masterton Trust Lands Trust.

Council Chief Executive Kym Fell welcomed the signing of the contract.

“This project will put the library at the centre of our community and futureproof its value for all residents and visitors for generations to come,” he said.

“Books will of course remain at the core of the library’s activities, but modern libraries are more than books. They are community hubs, and there will be fantastic scope for engagement and learning in a range of ways, led by the community.”

Brosnan’s Regional Manager for the Lower North Island, Daniel Benton, said it was a privilege to be involved in the library project.

“We’re proud to contribute to a project that will deliver lasting benefits for Masterton and the wider Wairarapa community. At Brosnan, construction is only part of what we do. Our focus is on collaborating with clients to meet the unique needs of their communities.”

Manager Library and Archive Tiffany Rawlings is delighted with the contract news.

"This is a great step in this exciting project. There has been a lot of interest from customers, and we're all looking forward to action at the Queen Street site as work gets underway."

The library continues to operate at the temporary site at 45 Chapel Street.

© Scoop Media