- library@orchard will close on 28 October 2024 for a revamp.
- The revamped library will reopen in the second half of 2026.
- The library’s design and arts collection will move to other places.
The popular orchard library in Singapore will get a makeover to create better spaces for learning and discovery.
Orchard Library Set for Major Upgrade
The National Library Board (NLB) announced that library@orchard will close for a big upgrade.
This popular library has been open for ten years.
It will shut its doors on 28 October 2024.
The library will reopen with new features in the second half of 2026.
According to NLB, Mr Ng Cher Pong, Chief Executive Officer of NLB, said, “The library has been a pitstop for many patrons, given its central location, unique range of resources and creative programmes, and of course its Instagram-friendly spaces.”
He added, “It is timely after ten years, to reimagine what more we can do with the space, including how the library can be made more interactive and immersive to enhance our patrons’ experience in reading, learning and discovery.”
What Will Change?
The revamp will create new tech-enabled spaces.
These spaces will be interactive and immersive.
They will help people learn and discover new things better.
This upgrade is part of NLB’s plan to make libraries better.
The plan is called LAB25 (Libraries and Archives Blueprint 2025).
Changes to the Library’s Collection
The library’s design and applied arts collection will move to new places.
Most of it will go to the Central Arts Library.
This new library will open by the end of 2024.
Some books will also go to the National Design Centre.
They will be there from early 2025.
This move is a team effort with the University of Arts Singapore.
These changes might make it easier for art lovers to find books in one place.
Special Event Before Closure
Before the library closes, there will be a special event.
It’s called “Design Is For Everyone: A decade of design, arts and community“.
The event will run from 8 to 27 October 2024.
Here’s what you can expect:
- An exhibition about the library’s history
- A wall where people can share their memories
- Special activities on 26 and 27 October
- Chances to make keepsakes to remember the library
NLB invites everyone to join this celebration.
It’s a chance to say goodbye to the old library before its big change.
More Library Upgrades Coming
The library@orchard revamp is just the start.
NLB plans to upgrade more libraries soon.
Libraries in Ang Mo Kio, Queenstown, and Toa Payoh will get makeovers too.
A big project is coming to Toa Payoh.
It will be part of a hub with sports, healthcare, and park facilities.
These changes aim to make libraries more useful and fun for everyone.
The library@orchard revamp shows NLB’s commitment to making libraries better for all Singaporeans.
