The photos showed piles and piles of sodden books stacked up in mountains outside Lismore’s library.

Around 30,000 books from Lismore Library were destroyed as the floodwaters surged to 1.6 metres, reaching its collection on the second floor for the first time.

Now, in a display of resilience and hope, Lismore’s main library was reopened to customers for the first time since the floods today, as the building’s extensive $5.6 million renovations near completion.

Lismore Area Librarian Michael Lewis said the finishing touches were still being put on the Lismore Library, but the council was responding to community demand to re-open the space as soon as possible.

“We know how important the library is to our community, which is why we decided to welcome them back despite the final works yet to be finalised,” he said.

“With the elevator still not operational, we have temporarily relocated a selection of services from the higher levels to the ground floor.”

After the floods, a pop-up Library was opened in town and a children’s library operated from the Lismore Central Shopping Centre.

These temporary sites have now closed.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said it was exciting to see the main building operational again.

“Like many people, I vividly remember the disturbing picture of the large pile of water-soaked books outside the library reaching up to the second story,” he said.

“While we are not quite there in terms of the rebuild, the public is keen to return to their treasured library, as is the staff.” 

The renovated library has been designed to be sturdier and more flood-resistant.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, said the reopening of Lismore Library was a powerful symbol of the community’s rebuild.

“Almost three years on, and today we see not just a restoration of what was lost, but a transformation that ensures this space is stronger and better prepared for the future,” Hogan said.

An official opening for Lismore Library will take place in March, once the renovation work is complete.