City of Melbourne Council has announced it will upgrade the City Library to create a modern, welcoming space for Melburnians and visitors to borrow books, access technology, and come together to share ideas.
The branch on Flinders Lane is one of Council’s most popular community facilities, tallying more than 255,000 visits last year.
Council says the ground floor will be revitalised, making it quick and easy to browse books and other items with the help of library staff. The first floor will be fitted out to provide spaces for the community to come together for meetings, study and co-working.
Visitors to City Library will be able to:
- Explore and borrow from the curated collection;
- Access computers, Wi-Fi and digital support;
- Enjoy the space for reading, relaxation and learning;
- Book spaces for collaboration.
Renovations are expected to begin in January, with the facility to be closed for around four weeks.
The revamped space will complement the new narrm ngarrgu Library and Family Services – which will become Council’s flagship branch when it opens in the Queen Victoria Market precinct on Saturday 25 November.
“The update follows extensive engagement to understand how our community uses our libraries today, and what they want for the future – and will ensure City Library can continue to deliver for our community as we build for the future,” said Creative Melbourne portfolio lead Councillor, Jamal Hakim.
The state-of-the-art facility will feature a three-level library, a dedicated children’s library, family services, a creative makers’ space, podcast and audio recording studios, and spaces for communal study, meetings and events.
“This refreshed offering will still support the many city workers and students who love to pop in on their lunch break or as part of their commute to browse the diverse collection or speak with our fantastic library staff,” said Lord Mayor, Sally Capp.
“City Library is an important part of our expansive library network, and we are proud to be delivering this project for our community.”
