Warrnambool's new $20.25 million learning and library hub will revolutionise how people think about libraries, those behind the project say.
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New images of the learning and library hub have been released to coincide with national library and information week, and they give an insight into what is being described as Warrnambool's biggest social infrastructure development in years.
The three-storey multi-purpose facility includes an indoor/outdoor café, public computers, exhibition and display areas, study places, meeting rooms, dedicated zones for children, young people and older people, a games and digital media zone and outdoor children's garden and play area.
The learning and library hub will be four times larger than the current Warrnambool library, expanding from 600 to 2500 square metres.
The library is being built in partnership between South West TAFE, Warrnambool City Council and the Victorian Government.
Warrnambool mayor Vicki Jellie said the new facility was long overdue.
"We should have had a new library in Warrnambool 10 years ago and it's great that we are finally getting the facility that the city deserves," Cr Jellie said.
"Our library service has been excellent for our community but this is a huge step up; people will be amazed with that they see."
Cr Jellie said the futuristic design would ensure the facility remained relevant for years to come.
"It won't just be for current library users; it will be for everyone. More people will use it because of its features and facilities and it will be an interesting and welcoming environment for everyone.
"I want to bring my grandchildren there."
We should have had a new library in Warrnambool 10 years ago and it's great that we are finally getting the facility that the city deserves.
- Mayor Vicki Jellie
The city council's manager of recreation and culture Alison Kemp outlined the benefits the new facility would offer the community.
"When people who don't understand what a contemporary public library can offer see a community hub that's heaving with activity and people who are learning, creating and being engaged and connecting with each other, they will absolutely change the way they think about libraries," she said.
"It's the best piece of social infrastructure this city has seen for years and will see for a long time to come."
The hub will include many features that are part of contemporary public libraries but haven't been in Warrnambool, she said.
Ms Kemp said the digital media lab would have huge benefits, allowing people to explore new technologies including virtual reality and 3D printing and to create or record their own stories in a sound booth.
"It will mean local people aren't being left behind," she said.
"They can discover the things the rest of the world is talking about but you can't afford to try at home, and it might inspire them to go on to a course at TAFE."
Ms Kemp said the biggest benefit of the facility would be its role as an accessible community hub, with easy access for everyone and areas dedicated to children, young people and older adults.
The design includes a secured children's outdoor garden and play area along with substantial interior room for children and families, with toilets and change rooms.
A dedicated youth space will encourage young adults to congregate and feel comfortable while enjoying study spaces or new technologies.
"The current library has no space that young people can call their own and feel comfortable in," Ms Kemp said.
Despite being three storeys, the hub will feature two lifts and will be accessible for people who most need a public library, including those with a disability or low mobility.
Historic parts of the site, such as the former orderly and gun room which features ornate timber ceiling and historic detailing on the walls, would undergo restoration as part of the project.
The city's book collection is set to be substantially expanded including collections not currently held by the Warrnambool library but found in other centres.
These will include Languages other than English, adult literacy, LGBT+ material and Indigenous collections.
The council's draft budget includes an allocation to spend $270,000 on "capital renewal of library stock" such as new books.
The budget also includes $1.25 million towards the project - part of the $3.12m the council is chipping in.
The new library will offer improved opportunities to access learning programs and digital media support.
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In addition to a café area, there will be community meeting spaces, including small meeting rooms and large spaces for programs, training and education and groups such as book clubs.
"It's going to be a warm and inviting facility filled with natural light," Ms Kemp said.
South West TAFE CEO Mark Fidge said the hub went beyond a traditional library and would become a place the whole community could enjoy.
"This is a tremendous investment in the future of Warrnambool," Mr Fidge said.
"The importance of literacy, technology and communication cannot be underestimated and this facility will bring all that and more to everyone in our region.
"It's a world-class library but it's not just about books, it's about social connection and community, a place for older people, families and people who have never gone to the library."
South West TAFE will own the facility, which will be accessed from both Gilles and Kepler streets, and it will be managed by Warrnambool council.
The tender would be awarded to the building contractor in June and works are expected to start soon after.
Thursday's state budget revealed that $2.6 million had already been spent on the project and $16.64 million would be outlaid in 2021-22.
Works are expected to be completed by September next year.
TAFE staff are currently vacating buildings in readiness for the building works to state.
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