Singapore's Geylang East Library to Move to Tanjong Katong Complex

In a surprising announcement, the Geylang East Public Library will be relocating to Tanjong Katong Complex by 2030, as revealed by Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, Rahayu Mahzam, during a parliamentary session on September 23. This move comes in light of a significant drop in visitors, alongside soaring renovation costs.

From 2015 to 2024, the library experienced a staggering 31% decline in foot traffic, plummeting from 670,000 to fewer than 470,000 visitors. With renovation costs projected to be over double per square meter at the current location compared to a new site in Tanjong Katong, the decision seems financially driven.

Community's Concerns and Petitions

The planned relocation has sparked deep concerns among local residents. MP Tin Pei Ling, representing the Marine Parade and Braddell Heights area, highlighted the library's significance as more than just a building; it is a cherished part of the community's collective memory.

In response to the announcement, residents have rallied, launching a petition that has garnered over 1,600 signatures against the relocation, showcasing the strong emotional ties to the library.

A Shift to Malls: The New Library Strategy

Citing a broader trend, reports indicate that libraries like Geylang East are increasingly being moved from standalone sites to shopping malls or integrated complexes. Other libraries, including those at Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh, and Jurong, are also set for similar transitions in the coming years.

Rahayu explained that this strategy is part of the National Library Board's 15-year 'Libraries of the Future' Masterplan, aimed at improving accessibility for the public and enhancing visitor numbers. Previous relocations, such as those at Harbourfront and Tampines, have seen remarkable increases in traffic, with boosts of 58% and 71% respectively.

Ensuring Continued Access for Residents

As the library approaches its transition, Ms. Tin raised concerns about maintaining library access for Geylang East residents. Rahayu assured that the National Library Board is engaged with the community to assess their needs and explore options for a 'library presence,' which could include pop-up reading areas or collaborative spaces.

In light of changing readership trends, Rahayu affirmed that overall library visits remain robust, with a staggering 20.8 million individuals visiting the NLB's comprehensive network in 2024 alone. With 24 million physical items and almost 15 million digital resources checked out, libraries are adapting to serve their communities amid the digital evolution.

A New Chapter for Geylang East Public Library

As the countdown to 2030 begins, the relocation of Geylang East Public Library stands as a pivotal moment for the community. While it stirs nostalgia and concern, the hope is that this change will ultimately breathe new life into the library experience, adapting to the needs of a modern, digitally engaged society.