“Please Don’t Shut Gordon White.” Hundreds Of Locals Call For Reconsideration On Mount Pleasant Library

A growing wave of community concern has emerged following a decision by Mackay Regional Council to repurpose the Gordon White Library in 2027, as part of broader plans linked to the new Northern Beaches Community Hub development.

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The council has indicated the Mount Pleasant facility will no longer operate as a full-service library once the new hub opens, with the building instead potentially becoming a broader community-council facility.

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The proposal has prompted a wave of feedback from residents who say the library plays an important role in the community.

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An online petition titled “Save Gordon White Library”, started by local resident Kristy Dodt, has gathered significant support since launching on May 6th, with 1,913 verified signatures recorded.

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The petition states: “The accessibility of this library for people of all ages and abilities makes it an integral part of this community, [which] offers so much to the people who utilise its resources, programs and staff.

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“We are asking Council to reconsider any plans to reduce operations at this facility, if they are unable to offer an immediate, viable and accessible alternative option for the community.”

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Community members have also shared personal reflections on why the facility matters to them.

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One signatory, Irene, wrote: “Three generations of my family use this library because of its accessibility, resources, friendly staff and proximity to where we live.  

“It’s such a shame that the community that actually utilises this community hub were not consulted further.”

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More than 400 comments have also appeared on a social media post from Mackay Regional Council discussing the proposed changes.

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Among them were comments from residents expressing disappointment or concern about the future of the library.

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“Whilst I agree a library at northern beaches would be nice, it should not come at the expense of losing Gordon White!” wrote Kayla.

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Another resident James added: “This is a terrible decision. The Gordon White library is used by so many people in the community; people from all walks of life: students, the elderly, people living with disability, parents with young children and families in general.”

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Annette wrote: “This is the best Library in Mackay.  

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“Really should consider closing the Mackay city library instead. Much harder to park and sometimes can be quite confronting taking children too. Was a horrible spot to pick.  

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“Please don’t shut Gordon White.”

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Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Gerard Carlyon have previously assured residents that the Dudley Denny City Library is safe, noting security guards are on site, and that the Northern Beaches Community Hub will feature a world-class library available for all to use.

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Council has also stated that it would be unnecessary to have two libraries on the northern side of Mackay, at Mount Pleasant and the Northern Beaches, once the new facility opens.

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Under the proposal, the Gordon White building would not be completely closed but could be repurposed as a community space similar to the Jubilee Community Centre, with meeting rooms and offices. A click-and-collect option for library books may also remain available at the site, though it would not be fully operated by library staff.

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Discussion around the future of the Mount Pleasant facility continues, with residents and library users sharing a range of views on the proposed changes.

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Residents wishing to provide feedback on the proposal can still do so until June 16th 2026 — as the community considers what the next chapter for the Gordon White Library could look like.

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