Choosing to strengthen rather than rebuild Wellington central library, could see it reopen sooner

City councillors have indicated their preference to strengthen and upgrade the existing building, rather than demolish and rebuild it.

Public consultation will run through August and September before a final decision is made in October.

Mayor Andy Foster says they're keeping an open mind to see what people want, but strengthening looks most appealing at this stage.

The library's been closed for more than a year after being deemed a quake risk.