The Diamond Valley Library in Greensborough has been officially reopened following an extensive $1.63 million upgrade.
Eltham MP Vicki Ward yesterday cut the ribbon marking the official opening on behalf of Shaun Leane, Minister for Local Government, Suburban Development and Veterans, together with Nillumbik Mayor Frances Eyre and Jane Cowell, CEO of the Yarra Plenty Regional Library (YPRL).
The Diamond Valley Library has been given a major refresh which includes:
- Extended children's area
- Parents' room
- Accessible unisex toilets
- Co-working area for micro businesses
- Community meeting room with kitchen facilities and storage for the toy library
- Tech pods and meeting pods
- Expanded outdoor decking overlooking the community garden
- New look library entry
- Refurbished glass cathedral ceiling.
The project has been funded with $500,000 from the Victorian Government's Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, $955,000 from Council and $175,000 from YRPL.
Cr Eyre said the revamp transformed the library, which was built in 1984, into a modern, inviting space for the community.
"Libraries are central to our community, they're not only for borrowing books, but a meeting place providing a chance to connect with others, learn, share knowledge as well as work and study," Cr Eyre said.
"As we respond to the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, it's important we continue to support opportunities for social connection, for small and micro businesses to thrive and, for our children, to learn."
"I would like to thank the Victorian Government, Eltham MP Vicki Ward, and Bundoora MP Colin Brooks, for their financial support of this project, and Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries for the wonderful service they provide to our community."
Jane Cowell, CEO of the Yarra Plenty Regional Library, said the library was so pleased to see users return to the rejuvenated library.
"Library users of all ages are now able to work, learn, read or play in the new spaces. It's wonderful to see the community making the most these features," she said.
The Diamond Valley Library is now open. Click & Collect is also available. For operating hours please visit the YRPL website.
