Design firm named to build future Ballarat Library

REFURBISHMENT plans for the Ballarat Library aim to see it become an architectural showpiece for the district.

Sydney Studio Hollenstein has been employed by the City to transform the site and design a “library of the future,” worth $2.4 million, which will be constructed by local contractors.

Set to be completed by the beginning of 2022, an improved entrance, public access to the building’s first floor and a new children’s section are all part of the works, funded by two tiers of government.

The City is injecting $1.9 million while the State’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program is putting in $500,000.

Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison said libraries are key, go-to safe spaces, important for building communities and growing minds.

“This announcement is an important step in transforming our library into a modern space that is welcoming to all, from our littlest residents to our oldest learners,” she said.

Between 2009 and 2012 Ms Addison took her two daughters to the Ballarat Library every Tuesday morning for Rhyme Time, developing friendships with other attending parents.

“This is a beautiful library that is maintained and supported by the City of Ballarat and now we’re coming to put half-a-million dollars in to make it an even better space for young people, children, and people who don’t have the IT access that they need in this modern world,” she said.

City of Ballarat mayor, Cr Ben Taylor said this progress is exciting for hundreds of families and children who use the Doveton Street facility, and for those who will in coming years.

“Many new services…will be available to accommodate our current and future library users,” he said.

“This project will attract investment and lead to jobs for local workers during the construction phase.”

The community may be able to engage with the project from next month or October, depending on pandemic restrictions.

Studio Hollenstein was one of 25 applicants for the tender and has previously worked on a public resource centre project, Green Square Library and Plaza in New South Wales.