A new library could be coming for Cambridge

Wednesday, 4 October 2023

A squeeze on Cambridge Library has prompted a $250,000 look at new options.

The current library is struggling to fit into its space in Wilson Street, next to the council building, a statement said.

“There’s not enough room for books and items, there are limited spaces for events and education programmes and staff are struggling to work in the congested back-office spaces,” Waipā District Council community services manager Brad Ward said.

Options to be investigated in the feasibility study include adding a community hub and heritage offering, and local firm PAUA Architects will do the study on behalf of Waipā District Council.

It will look at community need, cost, practicality and where a future library could be.

The current library has almost 22,700 members - and counting, the council said.

A new library has been identified as a top priority by the Cambridge Community Board, which will have input into the project.

The feasibility study is fully funded by central government’s Better Off Fund, the council said, and will be completed by February.

Five companies were invited to tender for the study.

PAUA came out on top given the team is Waipa-based, had invited early (and ongoing) mana whenua involvement in their proposal, and because of their innovation and creativity.