Libraries Tasmania, responsible for preserving the state’s documentary heritage, required a new archival storage facility at 271 East Derwent Highway, Geilston Bay, to replace the outdated and inadequate Berriedale location.

What the Tasmanian Archives told us they wanted.

The new facility needed robust, long-term storage solutions, combining static and mobile shelving systems to securely accommodate the growing collection. The shelving had to optimise storage for predominantly paper-based records stored in Type 1 archival containers, maintain archival integrity, and last at least 30 years without corrosion or emitting harmful vapors.

 

How we acted on what we heard.

Castledex designed, supplied, and installed a complete system combining static steel shelving and the Foreg 2000 mechanically assisted mobile shelving. Every component, from shelving to tracks and bumpers, was selected to optimise space and preserve archival integrity. Custom 900mm x 400mm shelves were tailored for maximum capacity, while materials were chosen to avoid corrosion and harmful emissions.

Staff received full training on the system’s use, and integrated safety mechanisms—including anti-tip and interlock features—ensured smooth and secure daily operation.

In addition to paper-based records, the collection includes diverse government materials and Type 1 containers requiring long-term preservation and precision handling.

Inspired results

Castledex delivered:

  • 15 Foreg 2000 mobile shelving systems, totalling 1,920 bays
  • 7 runs of static shelving, adding 68 bays
  • A total of 14,442 lineal metres of storage space
  • Capacity for 82,770 archive boxes

Rigorous testing and inspections by Libraries Tasmania confirmed the installation exceeded requirements. The result is a secure, efficient, and future-proof archival storage facility, significantly enhancing Libraries Tasmania’s ability to preserve and provide access to the state’s important documentary heritage.