Liverpool City Council has begun the search for a bigger and better library for the south‑western Sydney suburb of Miller, with community consultation to play a central role in shaping its future.
Mayor Ned Mannoun said Council first relocated the Miller Library to the shopping centre 11 years ago in response to the needs of the local community at the time.
"Eleven years ago, we moved the library into the Miller shopping centre because that's what the community wanted then," Mayor Mannoun said.
"Today, we recognise that community needs are shifting, and with the current lease ending in November, we have an opportunity to respond and plan for a library that better serves Miller now and into the future."
Mayor Mannoun said he wanted to be clear that the library will remain in Miller.
"Miller Library will stay in Miller. Libraries are critical community hubs and Council is absolutely committed to ensuring the residents of Miller continue to have access to a local library."
The Mayor said Liverpool City Council has consistently invested in libraries as essential community infrastructure, citing the development of Carnes Hill Library and Yellamundie Library as examples of Council's recognition of libraries as vital community assets.
"Libraries are far more than places to borrow books. They support learning, digital inclusion, wellbeing and social connection, and that's reflected in the libraries we have built across our city," he said.
The Mayor said the existing Miller Library is relatively small and does not offer the range of spaces available in other Liverpool libraries, such as study rooms, workshop areas and multipurpose community spaces.
"At the moment, we don't have the rooms or flexible spaces that exist in our newer libraries. This is exactly what we want to bring to Miller."
Despite its limitations, Mayor Mannoun said the current library continues to be well used, particularly by residents seeking access to public computers and internet services.
"This shows just how important free and reliable digital access remains for the Miller community, and it will be a key consideration as we plan a new facility."
Community consultation will be a critical part of the process, with Council seeking direct feedback from residents on how they use the library and what services they would like to see in the future.
"Libraries mean different things to different people, whether it's access to technology, places to study, programs for children and seniors, or simply a safe place to spend time," Mayor Mannoun said.
"We want to hear from the people of Miller so we can deliver a library that meets their needs."
Council will continue planning and community engagement and will keep residents informed as the process progresses.
