Sue Thomson Casey Memorial Library to trial operating hours changes
The popularity of different evening opening hours last year has prompted the Sue Thomson Casey Memorial Library to trial slightly adjusted weekday and Saturday opening times.
Last year's changes were made to provide evening study space and to increase programming.
Buller District Council Group Manager Community Services Krissy Trigg says the longer late nights were highly successful, and meant the library was open an additional 2.75 hours each week. The facility was always adequately staffed, and the extended hours were achieved within existing budgets, ensuring no extra cost to provide a continuation of services which matter to our community.
“To better meet community needs within our regular number of weekly hours, and continue providing access outside the standard working week, the library will begin a 12-month trial of adjusted weekday and Saturday opening times, running from 7 April 2026.
“During the trial, users will be invited to share feedback on how the new hours are working for them,” Ms Trigg says.
From 7 April the library will open at 10.00 am Monday to Friday, shifting opening time half an hour later than current hours. On Saturdays, the library will also open at 10.00 am, half an hour earlier than current hours.
“We wanted to cause the least disruption to library users and we think these minor changes will work for them: Standardising opening times across the week; increasing Saturday access; and returning the library to its usual total operating hours, while retaining the extended late-night Tuesdays,” she says.
The library will remain open on Tuesday evenings until 8.00 pm during daylight saving, and 7.00 pm outside daylight saving - reflecting actual library usage in the different seasons.
-ENDS-
For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
Media.Enquiries@bdc.govt.nz
Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.