Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council has celebrated the official opening of the newly renovated Cootamundra War Memorial Library.
The refurbishment included new carpet, painting, lighting, new computer desks and circulation desk and new computers for public use and was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Special guests included Local Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke; Deputy Mayor, Ros Wight and some of Cootamundra’s newly elected councillors.
Librarian, Penny Howse thanked contractors, library, and council staff for their efforts during the renovation work. The library was able operate during the process, due to the dedications and hard work of many and was testament to the popularity of the library, the space and the services offered, she said.
“As most of you will be aware Cootamundra is part of the Riverina Regional Library network, with 19 branch libraries in total, branches including Temora, Mulwala and most recently Berrigan Shire have joined us,” Ms Howse said.
“Cootamundra have the second most members per population percentage (3,180), During the past year we also had over 30,000 items go out on loan and close to 47,000 library visits.”
Formerly known as the School of Arts and Literary Institute, the building opened as the War Memorial Library in 1955. It was later demolished to make way for the present library, which was opened in 1991.
