QUICK SUMMARY
Cairns Regional Council awarded a $1.27 million contract to Osborne Construction Solutions for the refurbishment of Smithfield Library, exceeding the original budget by $700,000. The project will double the library's collection size and modernize facilities, but will require the library to close until June 30 next year.
Cairns Regional Council awarded a $1.27 million contract to Osborne Construction Solutions for the refurbishment of Smithfield Library, exceeding the original budget of $970,378. A council report attributed the increased costs to escalating construction prices in recent years. The renovation will modernize the 37-year-old facility, which last underwent upgrades in 2007. Key features of the upgrade include new furniture, expanded technology like automatic book returns, and redesigned spaces for children and collaborative learning. The project aims to double the library's collection size and enhance the overall user experience. However, the library will close until June 30 next year, impacting local patrons. Division 2 councillor Matthew Tickner expressed concerns at a council meeting about ensuring overdue work on the Edmonton library remains a priority in the 10-year capital works program. This refurbishment reflects the council's commitment to improving community resources despite budgetary challenges.