The revamped Waipukurau Library has closed suddenly after engineers deemed the building to have "structural vulnerabilities", despite supposed strengthening work done as part of renovations just four years ago.
Central Hawke's Bay Council chief executive Monique Davidson said council made the decision after receiving advice from engineers that the building has structural vulnerabilities putting it at risk in the event of a "significant earthquake".
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The building will be closed to the public until further notice, while the Central Hawke's Bay District Council awaits completion of a further detailed seismic assessment report.
"It is the safety of our staff and customers that is of primary concern to us," Davidson said.