Queenstown library to undergo two-year revamp in 2025

Wellness and sustainability features will be incorporated into nation's oldest library

- Esther Loi and Ng Keng Gene

Singapore's oldest public library will be closed for a two-year revamp in the first quarter of 2025, as part of the National Library Board's (NLB) wider transformation plans for its libraries.

Queenstown Public Library will undergo a large-scale redesign to refresh its spaces and service offerings. This will include incorporating wellness and sustainability features, NLB told The Straits Times.

"The new library seeks to create communal spaces that can empower community action, as well as transport users into a sanctuary with layered experiences," said NLB in tender documents seen by ST.

Located in Margaret Drive, the grey two-storey building with bow-tie arches has seen its share of upgrading works since opening in 1970, from the refurbishment of the adults and children's sections in 1984 to building-wide renovation works in 2003.

It was gazetted for conservation in 2013, which requires its exterior facade to be maintained.

NLB said it is looking to weave the library's heritage into its revamped design and offerings while following conservation guidelines.

The board had called a tender for consultancy services, which closed on April 11.

After detailed designs for the project are ready, it is slated to call a tender for construction works from the third quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2025.