Extensive research and in-depth involvement from the community, stakeholders and tangata whenua has led to the City Transformation Committee adopting strategies for a new central library and museum to provide a popular social and cultural heart for Tauranga.
Committee Chair Councillor Larry Baldock said the approach for a central library and museum are all about connecting communities.
“Our priority for a central library and museum is to create a sense of belonging, share our unique story, to generate growth and inspiration, and to bring people to the city centre,” he said.
The strategies include an outline of what you could expect to see and do, as well as approaches to self-generated revenue options such as food and beverage sale, a retail store, ticketed programmes and venue hire.
The experiences outlined in the strategy, essential for a successful Tauranga museum would include everything from a wet workshop, technology centre and educational group learning spaces, to a high quality discovery centre, a contemporary marae, interactive exhibitions of Bay of Plenty stories, and changing galleries including international touring exhibitions.
The experiences provided by a new central library would be set around digital technology, physical spaces that are welcoming and accessible, collections that reflect our diversity, and community programmes that support learning, literacy and digital skills.
The next stage of work will involve developing a better understanding the costs and benefits of the museum and library options. A preferred way forward will be included in the draft 2018-2028 Long Term Plan, where the community will be able to have their say through the submission process.