One of Melbourne's most popular libraries has officially reopened following improvements to better serve the community.
Among the city library upgrades are more shared spaces for community meetings, learning and collaboration.
A selection of artworks, photographs and films from the City of Melbourne's Art Heritage Archive are currently on display throughout the library, celebrating Melbourne and the surrounding region.
The children's area has been relocated to a brighter, more inviting space with colorful wildlife illustrations by local artist Sarah Allen.
Reading sessions for infants, toddlers and older children are also scheduled to resume in 2025.
A new reading lounge on the mezzanine floor offers a wide range of newspapers and magazines to browse, making it a cozy urban retreat.
The library gallery is also back, with the popular piano and the first exhibition by local artist and disability advocate Angelina Mirabito.
City of Melbourne CEO Alison Leighton said: “We are proud to reopen our renovated City Library, a unique library that welcomes more out-of-towners than any other city library in Victoria. It's a community space.”
All the critical elements our communities depend on are also back, including public computers and printing facilities, book clubs and events, and shelter for vulnerable residents during severe weather.
The book collection as part of the upgrade has been carefully curated to reflect users' interests, including a multicultural section focused on Chinese, Korean, and Japanese titles.
City libraries continue to be inclusive spaces for all Melburnians, particularly those vulnerable to homelessness and domestic violence, and our resident social workers continue to provide support.
Library members can now use click and collect services across City of Melbourne's collections, with extended access from 6pm to 7pm Monday to Thursday.
“Visited by more than 1,000 students, city employees and residents each day, the upgraded library will be able to accommodate even more users through reading lounges, meeting rooms and collaborative spaces,” Layton said. .
