Budget 2006:
9 May 2006:
Media Statement: National Library
The National Library will be funded to evaluate redevelopment options
The National Library will be funded to evaluate options to redevelop the National Library as part of the 2006 Budget the
National Library Minister Judith Tizard announced today.
Speaking at the AGM of the National Library Society, the Minister announced that the government has made available
$300,000 as part of this year's budget.
"The National Library is projected to run out of space for its collections within 5-6 years. This money will enable it
to explore options to add an additional floor to the building."
"A capital injection of $18 million has been earmarked for this development in 2008/09 subject to receiving the
appropriate information and Cabinet approval."
"This development recognises the importance of the National Library and the services and opportunities it provides. The
National Library has diverse roles which help support government goals - it's actively contributing to our digital
future, and its information role is helping achieve a knowledge-based economy. Its schools programme supports national
literacy. And its heritage role contributes to our sense of national identity.
The building was once famous for being the 'hole in the ground'. It was designed in the 1960s but the site sat empty for
many years. The building was finally opened in 1987.
ENDS