A lift is being installed at the national library as part of the refurbishment project on the ex-Café Premier site in Valletta.
The library is currently only accessible through a flight of stairs.
The former owners of the ex-Café Premier site were given a controversial €4.2 million bailout by the government to vacate it. The site has been handed over to the Valletta local council, which will be moving into the new premises next year.
Valletta mayor Alexei Dingli said the new council offices will improve accessibility to residents seeking council services, as well as those wishing to visit the library.
The new council offices will also have a daycare centre for the elderly.
NGOs will also have a space allocated for their use.
Local Councils Minister Owen Bonnici said the site will also feature a community library.
Space will be available for workshops and cultural activities, Dr Bonnici said.
Minister Owen Bonnici (second from right) announces the lift project. Photo: Chris Sant Fournier