Canberra library hours slashed to weekdays, creative spaces handed to government
Canberra libraries now close at 5pm on weekdays only, with creative spaces handed to a government centre.
Canberra's public libraries now close at 5pm on weekdays only, with no evening or Sunday openings after an independent review found inefficient staffing caused frequent closures. Students who study after school and weekend visitors can no longer access any branch.
At Woden Library, the library will maintain the current functions of the podcast and community rooms on the east wing of the upper floor. The government will spend $3.108 million to co-locate a new Access Canberra office starting January 2027, despite no public consultation.
Planners expect up to 80,000 government visitors annually. City Services Minister Tara Cheyne acknowledged community concern and committed to restoring weekend hours at two branches from mid-2027.
A community group called FRACTL launched a petition opposing the design process and calling for more consultation.
- 9am-5pm weekdays only
- New hours
- $3.108 million
- Access Canberra cost
- 80,000 government visitors
- Expected annual visitors
- January 2027
- Office opening
Why it mattersYoung people and shift workers lose access to study and creative spaces; libraries shift from public community hubs toward government administrative centres.
AustraliaCanberra residents, especially students and creative workers, can no longer use libraries outside standard business hours or access dedicated podcast and art studios that will become government offices.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
