Cardinia Shire manager of major projects and buildings Steve Fernee, left, Ranges Ward councillor Ed Chatwin, Central Ward councillor Brett Owen and contract manager Rob Fletcher get an early look at the Emerald library.CONSTRUCTION of the Emerald Library is moving full steam ahead.
Cardinia Shire Council’s manager of major projects and buildings Stephen Fernee said the library had reached lockup stage, with work starting on painting and the installation of joinery, fittings and fixtures.
Mr Fernee said work on the $2.25 million project was on track for its scheduled opening in July.
“The library has been designed to complement the natural environment of Emerald with feature stonework columns both internally and externally, as well as the use of windows to highlight the external environment,” he said.
Mr Fernee said the library would feature two meeting rooms, an entrance foyer, a central borrowing desk and a book sorting room for library staff.
He said the Emerald Toy Library would be relocated into a new room that formed part of the library building, but would retain access to its former space in the Mechanics Hall.
“Once the construction of the library is completed, the carpark will be constructed, landscaping work will be carried out and the internal fitout will take place.”
The Emerald Library is expected to provide a valuable resource and meeting place for the local community.
Ranges Ward councillor Ed Chatwin said he may have to ‘eat his words’ on comments made on the project last year.
He said in July, 2005 that there needed to be more community consultation on the project and that council should have waited before pressing ahead with its plans.
However, after taking a sneak peak inside the almost finished library last week, Cr Chatwin said the library would be a superb resource for local people.
“I have been critical of the building from the start, but it looks like I am going to have to eat my words,” Cr Chatwin said.
