Project

The membrane roof on each of the three towers is at least 35 years old and has reached the end of its functional life. The membrane is leaking and needs to be replaced to protect the building from weather damage. The flat central roof was replaced in 2017 and will not be changed. The upgrades to protect the building are planned to be in keeping with the historic building status.

History

The Nightingale Library Memorial was built in 1978 following a bequest from Nellie Nightingale and action from the Tāhunanui Progressive Association. It was designed by architect Alex Bowman, and has been identified to become a Group A heritage building due to it’s high architectural and historic significance.

The Nightingale Memorial Library has high overall significance to Nelson. The building has high historic and social significance for its association with Nellie Nightingale, a successful Nelson and Tasman district businesswoman and high cultural significance for the esteem in which it is held by local people. The Nightingale Memorial Library has high architectural significance for the quality and integrity of its design by local architect Alex Bowman, which has been recognised by a regional architectural award.

You can read more about the history of the Nightingale Memorial Library here.