THE redeveloped Ballarat Library was officially opened this week, and staff are already reporting that hundreds of people are attending its weekly programs.<\/p>\n
Funded with $6.98 million from the City of Ballarat and $500,000 from the State Government, the upgrades include an expansion of the building’s second level, a new main entrance with increased accessibility, improved internal spaces, seating to accommodate 450 people, and additional public meeting rooms.<\/p>\n
There is also a larger children’s space, a baby feeding and change lounge, a youth space with a community demonstration kitchen, and a designated performance space.<\/p>\n
“With a suite of new facilities that go well beyond the historical service offerings of libraries, the newly redeveloped Ballarat Library offers a glimpse of the future of libraries in Australia that function as important community hubs,” City of Ballarat mayor, Cr Des Hudson said.<\/p>\n
The Ballarat Library’s programming has been relaunched which includes daily story times and book chats.<\/p>\n
Inductions are also being offered to the maker space which has 3D printers, vinyl cutter and heat press, sewing machines and digitisation equipment.<\/p>\n
Youth programming will begin in term three with programs like Dungeons and Dragons, craft and popular culture clubs.<\/p>\n
“These spaces are designed to be places for the community to come together, learn new things and support each other in creative ways,” Cr Hudson said.<\/p>\n
“It’s great to see so many community members participating in the library’s programs.”<\/p>\n
Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison said there are so many reasons to enjoy the library beyond simply borrowing a book.<\/p>\n
“I encourage everyone to pop in and see all that it has to offer,” she said.<\/p>\n
“This transformative project will provide much needed modern amenities and expanded resources for the community.<\/p>\n
The reimagined spaces will inspire creativity, empower learning and provide a contemporary facility for all to enjoy.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE redeveloped Ballarat Library was officially opened this week, and staff are already reporting that hundreds of people are attending its weekly programs. Funded with $6.98 million from the City of Ballarat and $500,000 from the State Government, the upgrades include an expansion of the building’s second level, a new main entrance with increased accessibility, […]<\/p>\n