Published on Monday, 8 June 2026 at 4:09:08 PM
Planning is underway to relocate the Esperance Public Library and the Volunteer Resource Centre (VRC), after a recent building assessment identified unexpected moisture and environmental concerns.
Buildings of this age can commonly experience damp-related issues, which is why regular assessments are undertaken. This latest inspection found no area of the Library was found to have high levels of mould. Expert evaluation determined the building is safe to use, however the Shire is mindful that long-term damp conditions can affect the health of some people.
The Shire is taking a proactive approach to ensure the continued safety of staff, volunteers and the community, while maintaining access to important services.
Key Information
- An independent assessment identified deterioration in parts of the Library building, including roofing, drainage and internal areas
- No areas were classified as having high levels of mould contamination, however long-term exposure to damp environments can pose health risks for some individuals
- Staff, volunteers and direct stakeholders have been fully informed of the situation and will be kept updated
- A decision has been made to relocate Library and VRC services to alternative locations as a precautionary measure
- Relocation is anticipated within the next 3–4 months (August–September, subject to planning)
- The current facility is expected to be demolished within 6–12 months
- A new, purpose-built Library is already in motion as part of the future James Street Cultural Precinct
The Noel White Centre in the Greater Sports Grounds is being assessed as a potential temporary relocation site for the Library, and suitable options for the Volunteer Resource Centre are being explored.
Community Impact
These services play an important role in the Esperance community, supporting learning, connection, volunteering and access to information.
The relocation will:
- Help ensure a safe and healthy environment for staff, volunteers and users
- Allow services to continue operating
- Support continuity of programs, resources and community activities where possible
While there may be some changes to how services are delivered during this period, the Shire is committed to maintaining access to the Library collection and services, and minimal disruption.
Importantly, this transition also supports the longer-term vision of delivering a modern, fit-for-purpose Library as part of the James Street Cultural Precinct.
The Shire will continue to work through necessary details, including:
- Final locations and layouts for temporary and future services
- How collections, programs and events will operate during the transition
- Opportunities to support community use and access
The community can expect updates as decisions are confirmed.
We encourage residents to stay informed and reach out with any questions or ideas as planning progresses. Email shire@esperance.wa.gov.au, call 9071 0666, or post to PO Box 507, Esperance WA 6450.
FAQs
Why is the Library moving?
A recent independent assessment identified unexpected moisture and leaks, adding to the general wear and tear within the building we have been aware of. While no areas were found to have high levels of mould, long-term damp conditions can affect some people’s health.
We’re taking a proactive approach to make sure Esperance has a safe and welcoming Library for our visitors, staff and volunteers.
Is it safe to visit the Library now?
Yes. The Library remains open and is safe to use.
Additional cleaning measures have been put in place, and we’re continuing to monitor conditions closely. Masks are also available at the front entrance for anyone who would like to use one.
What will happen to the services I use?
We’re committed to keeping core Library services running throughout the transition.
This includes:
- borrowing and returns,
- access to collections and resources,
- programs and events where possible.
Some services or spaces may look a little different during this time, but we’ll keep you updated along the way.
Book Locker: Access the library catalogue online from home and select new items to borrow. You can place a reserve on an item for collection at the library counter or from the external book locker out the front.
Printing Services: Another service that can be accessed from home. You can upload and pay for your printing and then visit the library to release your print job.
eLibrary: You can use your Esperance Public Library membership barcode to access a range of ebooks, emagazines, enewspapers, eaudiobooks, ecomics, films, music, TV programs, tutorials & more.
If you need assistance getting started, please contact your library team on 9083 1500.
Where will the Library go?
We’re currently exploring location options, including the Noel White Centre in the Greater Sports Ground.
No final decision has been made yet, and we’ll share updates with you as soon as plans are confirmed.
What about the Volunteer Resource Centre (VRC)?
We’re also working on suitable arrangements for the VRC so they can continue to support local volunteers and community organisations.
What is going to happen to the current Library building?
The current Library building has been an important part of the Esperance community for many years, and holds fond memories for local families, staff, volunteers and visitors.
As part of the long-term plan for the James Street Cultural Precinct, the building was always intended to be retired once services moved into the new purpose-built Library facility. Following these recent building assessments, the timeline will now be brought forward to support the health and safety of Shire staff, volunteers and the community.
Based on current planning, demolition of the building is anticipated within the next 6–12 months.
We understand this may be disappointing for some people, and we’ll continue to keep the community informed as plans progress, while continuing to celebrate the important role the Library has played in Esperance over the years.
How can I stay updated?
We’ll provide regular updates through:
- Library newsletter
- In-library signage
- Social media
- and the Shire website
Can I share feedback or ideas?
Absolutely! Your ideas and feedback are important to us.
You can email library@esperance.wa.gov.au or drop a suggestion in the Feedback box on the library counter.
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