Lismore City Library now open to all

THE final restoration of Lismore City Library, including a new elevator, is now complete, with the library open to all members of the public.

The colourful new features and design principles aim to encourage people of all ages to engage in learning and community life.

Since reopening its doors to the public earlier this year, the library has become a popular destination for the community to connect after years of disruption during post-flood recovery and reconstruction.

NSW Minister for Recovery, Small Business and the North Coast and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, said the community had waited a long time for this moment.

“The lift is working, the shelves are full, and the energy is back,” Saffin said.

“This library isn’t just open, it’s thriving. I have supported this refurbishment all the way, and with major state and federal funding, it has been able to happen.

“I couldn’t be prouder to see Lismore Library return to the heart of our community.”

Bennett Constructions and BKA Architecture restored the building with more resilient materials, methods and services to improve water resistance.

Quiet zones, charging stations, and flexible seating arrangements have enhanced the flexibility of spaces for focused work and study.

A new stairwell artwork by Rebecca Kocass, Luke Close and Annette Deal marks a tribute to the support Lismore received following the 2022 floods.

Lismore area librarian Michael Lewis said reopening the library was about more than just books on shelves.

It was about giving the community a space they could feel proud of, Lewis said.

“The new elevator has made the building more accessible, and the children’s area is buzzing again,” he said.

“And a new public artwork stands as a thank you to the people right across Australia who helped us rebuild.”

The $5.6 million investment comprised $4.5 million in Flood Restoration funds shared between the State and Federal governments, and $135,821 from the NSW Government’s 2022 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package.