Leopold’s new library opens its doors to the community

LEOPOLD’s new library opened its doors to the community on Monday, with more celebrations to come at a free Family Fun Day this weekend.

Geelong Regional Library Corporation Chair Councillor Ron Nelson, City of Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood and local children Keelie and Hudson cut the blue ribbon to mark the milestone.

“It’s a very special and proud moment for me and the library corporation, opening the second facility on the Bellarine, and once these doors open there will be 17 libraries in our region,” Cr Nelson said.

“Having a look around this building it is truly outstanding, and without a doubt it will be a great pleasure to be a part of this Leopold community.

“We really can’t underestimate the importance of libraries in our society.

“Albert Einstein once said “The only thing you absolutely have to know is where your local library is”, and he was a pretty smart guy as you can imagine.”

Whilst the library will be a novelty for people living in the area today, according to Geelong Heritage Centre records, this is not the first public library in Leopold.

The first library opened in 1883, when the area was known as Kensington.

Public libraries have evolved dramatically since then, and Cr Nelson said that the Leopold community can look forward to discovering cutting-edge technology and highly modern spaces in their new library.

“Leopold Library will provide services, spaces and programs for people of all ages, including a dedicated technology makerspace to encourage creativity, imagination and problem solving,” Cr Nelson said.

The library will host a free Family Fun Day this Saturday December 8 from 10am to 3pm, which will be a great opportunity for the community to meet the staff and explore the new library space.