Murray’s much-loved and only public library is set for a refurbishment this year, enhancing its functionality and community appeal.
Thanks to a $200,000 grant from Community Bank Pinjarra (Bendigo Bank), the space at Murray Library can be completely reimagined to better suit the changing needs of a growing community. It will become brighter, more accessible and user-friendly thanks to a new layout, upgraded equipment, fresh coat of paint and decorative elements.
Upgrades will include updated shelving, reconfiguration of the children’s space, additional study spaces, new furniture to support multi-generational activities, updated branding and signage, to name a few.
These upgrades will ensure the library remains a valued and inclusive space that continues to serve as a cornerstone of civic life in Murray
When will this happen?
Works are expected to begin in November 2025.
Why is the shelving being replaced?
The current shelving is very high, making it difficult to access library resources for people with physical disabilities. The new shelving will be lower in height and resources will be easier to access for everyone. The current shelving is also fixed and cannot be moved, while the new shelving will be mobile, providing flexibility to create more spaces for programs and events.
Will the Library be closed?
Yes, the Library will need to close to carry out the works. During this time, some services and programs will be available from our temporary location at the Pinjarra Heritage Railway Building.
More information will be shared as plans progress and firm dates are known.
How long will the library be closed for?
The library will be closed for approximately 6 weeks from early November until mid December 2025. More information will be shared as plans progress and firm dates are known.
Will I be able to borrow books while the library is
closed?
As the collection will be boxed for safe keeping, borrowing of books will not be possible during this time.
In the lead up to the closure we will increase borrowing limits so you will be able to borrow additional resources to keep you busy until we reopen.
You can continue to access our online resources Libby, Borrowbox, Hoopla and Kanopy whilst we are closed.
We will be running some information sessions ahead of the closure period to help you get acquainted with the online resources.
Will borrowed books be due back when the library is
closed?
To make things easier while the library is closed, we’re extending loan periods and increasing the number of items you can borrow. This way, you won’t have to worry about overdue items or running out of reading material before we reopen.
Can I still return my books while the library is closed?
Yes, returns can be made through the Murray Library after-hours return chute or in person at the temporary library location during usual opening hours.
What about Storytime and Rhyme Time?
Storytime and Rhyme Time will continue during the closure period with the locations to be advertised nearer to the time.
Will the usual adult programs such as Knit ‘n Yarn,
Book Club and digital help continue to run?
Yes, our usual programs will continue to run from one of the Shire’s other community halls or locations. Further details will be shared nearer the time.
Will I be able to access public computers and printing services?
These services can be accessed at Murray House Resource Centre.
Will there be more books when the library reopens?
We hope the new setup creates a more welcoming and enjoyable experience for all our patrons.
This new layout is designed to make it easier to browse and discover books, including ones you might not have noticed before. While slightly fewer books will be on display at one time, the collection will be vibrant, regularly updated, and carefully chosen to stay relevant to our readers. Library staff will always be happy to help you find anything you’re looking for.
When the library reopens, there will be fewer books on the shelves than before, as we’re introducing more display-facing shelving.
Access to the entire consortium collection will continue, ensuring your needs are met.
What will happen to the excess books?
While the library is closed, we’re planning to give away many of the extra books that won’t fit on the new shelves. Keep an eye out for the giveaway opportunities – we’d love for our well-loved books to find new readers in the community.
What about the new Library?
We know there’s strong community interest in a new library building, and we’re excited about the possibilities it could bring. While long-term planning for a new facility is still underway, we’re committed to meeting the community’s needs in the meantime.