New $14 million roof for National Library

The library says the new roof will cost "just in excess of $14 million", with insurance helping to cover the expense.

It will take 16 months to install the new copper sheeting to replace the old copper roof damaged in the January, 2020 hailstorm.

A large crane was starting the work at the library this week and will be a regular sight as the sheeting is put into place.

"Large, white, weather-proof oblong domes will be used to cover the roof while the copper panels are being installed. The gleaming copper sheeting will be revealed as the installation progresses," the library said.

The new roof is part of major building work at the library including restoring some of the brass-framed heritage windows; updating the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system; improving the storage of collections on site and refurbishing the digitisation and photography labs.

The library said its collection grew, one average, by 2km to 2.5km every year.

"The building improvements have been designed to ensure we use our available space as efficiently as possible and safeguard the collection for future generations," it said.

"All building works have relied on the advice of and input from conservators, heritage experts, architects and engineers."