Noosaville Library reopens after $2.2M upgrade

A $2.2M refurbishment of Noosaville Library is complete, delivering more space and new technology.

“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for Noosaville Library,” Mayor Tony Wellington said at today’s official reopening celebration.

“The new-look library is not only bigger, having gained an extra 80m2 of floor space and an expansive Wi-Fi-enabled courtyard, it’s also packed with exciting new technology.”

A new Makerspace – a purpose-built facility where people gather to work on joint creative projects – provides access to 3D printers, virtual reality systems and robotics technology.

Other features include programming and meeting rooms, children’s early literacy space, dedicated Heritage Library and high-tech lighting and air-conditioning to support Council’s sustainability goals.

“The Noosaville Library was originally opened 25 years ago, before the internet was readily available.” the Mayor said. “Library use has changed significantly over the years, and this new design better meets today’s needs. That includes an RFID (radio-frequency identification) system that does away with bar codes and expedites withdrawals.

“The upgrade has given the much-loved building a fresher, more modern internal fit out incorporating a wide range of works from local artists, while retaining the charm of the original Maurice Hurst-designed building. It’s a fantastic accompaniment to our award-winning Cooroy Library and will no doubt meet the community’s needs for many years to come” he said.

Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe, who joined Mayor Tony Wellington on site for the Library’s official reopening today, said the State was pleased to help fund the revamp.

“The Queensland Government is pleased to support Council to deliver such a world class library for Noosa Shire,” he said.

Council received $805,954 from the Queensland Government toward the cost of the refurbishment under the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.

“We certainly appreciate the State Government’s investment in this essential community asset,” the Mayor said. “Libraries bring the world to the community. Importantly, they also bring the community together.”

Council’s Manager, Libraries and Galleries, Kerri Contini, said staff were looking forward to showing residents the new and improved library.

“We appreciate the community’s patience while the Library has been closed and we’ve been operating out of temporary facilities. It has been worth the wait,” Ms Contini said.

“If you’ve not been for a visit in a while, come and have a look around and see for yourself how technology has transformed the modern library,” she said.

30 November 2018