The new Kangaroo Flat Library will be officially opened by Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Jennifer Alden and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards at 1pm Wednesday February 24, 2021.
City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Jennifer Alden said works to modernise and repurpose the former Kangaroo Flat Senior Citizens building commenced in late 2019 and were completed in June 2020.
"Although the Kangaroo Flat Library was completed and operating in 2020, COVID-19 restrictions have delayed the official opening of the new community facility until now," Cr Alden said.
"This has been a significant project for Kangaroo Flat and it's important to acknowledge its success with an official opening as there is much to celebrate.
"Not only have we built a fantastic new library for the wider Kangaroo Flat area, we have also invested in, repurposed and reinvigorated an under-utilised community owned building to serve the community for many years to come."
As part of the redevelopment a colourful new building façade and entrance has been created and the removal of some interior walls has opened up the inside to provide a fantastic range of new library spaces.
Works to modernise and repurpose the building included repairs to the building structure, services upgrades, the creation of a new entrance, removal of interior walls to create more open, accessible spaces and plastering and painting. New windows, high grade insulation and solar panels were also installed to allow more natural light in and make the building more sustainable and comfortable. A new car park and landscaping works were also undertaken.
Goldfields Libraries Corporation CEO Mark Hands said the new library features free public computers and Wi-Fi, a children's area complete with reading nook and special storytime chair, a lounge space with tea and coffee facilities, a baby change room and accessible toilets.
"There is also an outdoor courtyard and a shared group space for special library events including adult programs and children's activities," Mr Hands said.
"The Kangaroo Flat Library is also looking forward to developing partnerships with other local community groups including the Kangaroo Flat Neighbourhood House and the City's Social Support Group who are co-located in the building. This could involve programs that involve interactions between young children and their parents/carers and the older residents who use this service."
