Final chapter for new library?

The battle to save a new street library in Clontarf appears to have been lost – for now.

Melissa Forbes is preparing to take down the Maine Road Book Nook street library a month after opening.

Despite its support and popularity, a complaint was made to Moreton Bay City Council which has made recommendations.

They include running the street library from private land, not outside Melissa’s fence by the Beedham Street bus stop.

In its current location, she would need to apply for Alternation of Public Land Local Law and, if submitted, show she has Public Liability Insurance to the value of $20 million.

“It’s a shame because it had a wonderful start,” Melissa said, “it was great to feel the support from so many people.

“We’ll take it down and my husband and I will see what we can do. I feel it will be back, but in what form….? Watch this space!”

Councillor Karl Winchester (Div 6) is a big fan of street libraries but said: “Clearly for the resident public liability insurance is onerous and cost prohibitive.

“Melissa has made such a generous and neighbourly gesture by installing a street library at her own cost.

“I think street libraries are a great asset to our community and have many benefits.

“They build community connection, spur on reading among adults and kids alike, not to mention being colourful and creative additions to our streetscape.

“I want to encourage more street libraries and am looking at what changes we can make to better support them in future.

“A basic first step is making a factsheet to take some of the guess work out of installation.”