Despite final touches still being made to the Lismore Library rebuild and refurbishment after the devastating 2022 floods, the beloved landmark on Magellan Street will reopen on Monday, 3 February. This will result in the Lismore Pop-up Library on Molesworth Street and the Lismore Children's Library in Lismore Central Shopping Centre permanently closing and relocating to their regular locations in this renowned building.
The Lismore Library is currently undergoing an extensive upgrade to make it sturdier and more flood resilient. Despite the continuing repair work, including the installation of a new lift, it was important to respond to public demand and open doors as soon as possible.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg is excited to see the building operational again, recalling the iconic images of the sodden pile of library books that circulated globally and signified the devastation of one of the worst natural disasters in Australian history.
"Like many people, I vividly remember the disturbing picture of the large pile of water-soaked books outside the library reaching up to the second story. In total, 30,000 books were lost," he said.
"While we are not quite there in terms of the rebuild, the public is keen to return to their treasured library, as is the staff."
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said having the library back home is wonderful.
"I know how much the local community has been looking forward to Lismore Library returning to this site because they kept asking about it!" she said.
Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the reopening of Lismore Library is a powerful symbol of our community's rebuild.
"Almost three years on, and today we see not just a restoration of what was lost, but a transformation that ensures this space is stronger and better prepared for the future," Mr Hogan said.
For Michael Lewis, Lismore Area Librarian, who experienced the devastation first-hand and is leading the internal re-design, the move back into the space is an exciting milestone for his team and the community.
"We know how important the library is to our community, which is why we decided to welcome them back despite the final works yet to be finalised."
"With the elevator still not operational, we have temporarily relocated a selection of services from the higher levels to the ground floor."
Once the rebuild and refurbishment have been completed, the Lismore Library will be officially opened to celebrate this major achievement. One of the key features being prepared for the official opening is a public art installation recognising the substantial contribution and support received by the Australian public.
The $5.6 million flood-resilient restoration of the Lismore Library is being funded by significant investments, including:
- Flood Restoration funds shared between State and Federal Governments – $4.5 million
- NSW Government's 2022 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package – Arts and Cultural Priority Needs Program – $135,821
- 2023 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package – $494,400
- State Library of NSW Public Library Infrastructure Grants – $325,427
- Lismore City Council – $222,000.
The Lismore Central Shopping Centre community book swap will continue to operate.
Photo: Lismore head librarian Michael Lewis, Mayor Steve Krieg, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and a teenage library user.
