Roof leak impact library

Closed off areas.

By Afraa Kori

A roof leak has disrupted the Pakenham Library, forcing staff to close off affected areas since Friday, 7 March.

Cardinia Shire Council’s General Manager Infrastructure and Environment, Peter Benazic said prompt action was taken to address the issue, with a focus on safety and minimizing disruption.

“Cardinia Shire Council is currently undertaking repairs to the air conditioning system at Pakenham Library after we were made aware of a roof leak on Friday evening.

“As soon as Council was made aware of the issue, we arranged for our contractor to attend to investigate and make the area safe.

“The contractor found a leak in two of the air conditioning units on the roof and isolated the switch for these two units until repairs could be undertaken. It is expected that repairs will be completed by Thursday. The library is continuing to operate while repair works are completed.”

Deputy CEO at Myli – My Community Library, Bernadette Kennedy encourages everyone to not let this temporary setback stop them from exploring and learning.

“Pakenham Library remains open and ready to welcome our community. We invite everyone to visit, explore our collection, enjoy our programs, and make the most of our spaces. Our team is here to provide the same great service you know and love.”

Pakenham resident Michael Bodey described the library as more than just a place for books, calling it “a meeting place” where he can connect with others and seek assistance from staff.

“The staff help me out if I’ve got a problem with the photocopier and scanning documents or sending them to email or whatever. But overall, the library is a very good facility,” he said.

Despite recent disruptions, he continues to regularly visit and rely on the library’s services for essential tasks.

“Everything is okay for me at the moment. I went there last week to print a bank statement. I will be going there again before I go away on holidays to Japan. I will make use of it.”