New chapter beginning at Oamaru Library

Waitaki District Council is improving access to services and making it easier for the community to connect to council.

A council spokesperson said: "At the heart of the work we do is a commitment to improving access to services and ensuring that these services are centred around the needs of everyone in the Waitaki community. Council knows that it’s tricky for some people to visit the Council Service Desk at HQ during regular business hours, and is taking steps to change that. In early 2025 we will be expanding access to essential services by bringing them closer to you."

"Council’s Service Desk at HQ is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4 or 5pm, for those who can visit during those hours. We know that work and family commitments can make it hard to get to HQ. That’s why we’re taking a proactive approach by offering some Council services at the library which is open later during the day and on Saturday mornings. It's all about making it easier for you to access services outside of the standard working week. Whether you need to visit in person or connect with us online, we're here to ensure that services are available when you need them."

Chloe Searle, Arts, Culture & Libraries Manager says: “We’re committed to listening to our community and shaping our services to meet the public’s needs. By staying connected to local areas, we can better understand what the community wants from their Council and respond effectively. As we continue to expand our service offerings at the library combined with a growing range of online services, we are focused on providing more opportunities for you to get in touch with us.”

Lisa Baillie, Director Community Engagement and Experience says: “This is just the beginning, and we’re excited about what’s to come as we work to ensure that accessing Council services is easier and more convenient for everyone. We want to reassure everyone that the library will continue to be the vibrant, welcoming space it has always been, offering books, programs, and all the familiar services you rely on. The addition of Council services is simply a way to make it more convenient for you to get things done without affecting the current library experience in any way.”