Podium Refurbishment Project Update
The view from the new ex
libris café area
Photo: Gunther Glesti
Director-General
Jan Fullerton opens bookplate’s
new outdoor dining area, ex libris
Photo: Craig McKenzie
bookplate staff
deliver their usual excellent service at the ex libris opening
Photo: Craig McKenzie
An 18-month building works project to refurbish the National Library’s podium, the platform that surrounds the main heritage-listed building, commenced in May this year. The key reason for undertaking this major project is to ensure the ongoing conservation, care and protection of both the building and the collection. Work is being carried out in five stages (see Site Plan) to minimise disruption to Library users and is expected to be completed in late 2008. The refurbishment also includes an upgrade of external handrails, stairways and the balustrade around the perimeter of the podium, improvements to bookplate café’s outdoor area, and additional seating along the lake side of the building.
Bigger, Better bookplate
Stage 1 of the project is now complete and the upgraded bookplate outdoor café area, known as ex libris, was officially unveiled by the Director-General Jan Fullerton on Friday 23 November. Making full use of the Library’s location by Lake Burley Griffin, the 100-seat capacity ex libris is three times the previous size, has new umbrellas and glass panelling to maximise views, and features elegant furniture. The installation of lights and heating in the enclosed area will make it one of Canberra’s most sought-after, year-round outdoor dining and private function areas.
Work is now underway on Stage 2 of the project, which runs along the lake side of the building past the Main and Petherick Reading Rooms. This stage is expected to be completed in March 2008. All measures have been taken to minimise the impact on readers, including scheduling disruptive work at night and covering the windows to minimise noise.
What it Means for Library Visitors
The phasing of building work into five stages, enclosures around the immediate work areas, and signage directing pedestrian access will minimise disruption to Library users. Normal services will be maintained and little inconvenience is expected. During Stage 5, access to the area of the front steps will be reduced. When necessary, the disabled access will be moved from the existing location to a temporary ramp beside the front steps.
Yvonne Kennedy
Director, Communications and Marketing