A library for a growing community

BIYAL-A Armstrong Creek Library has only been open for a little under two years, but it is already being recognised as one of the country’s standout spaces.

Last month, the library received a commendation in the public library category at the Australian Library and Information Association’s 2026 Design Awards.

The $21 million library was funded by council ($20.364 million) and the Victorian government via a Living Libraries grant ($1.5 million).

Purpose-built for one of Australia’s fastest-growing communities, it was designed to meet the needs of local residents for decades to come.

Nearly half of all library users in growth corridors such as Armstrong Creek and Mount Duneed are under 25, highlighting the important role libraries play in supporting young people and families in rapidly growing communities.

Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library contains a vast collection of more than 32,000 books and resources, alongside multipurpose spaces and bookable meeting rooms.

If you haven’t visited the library yet, the creative spaces are also worth exploring.

There’s a media room with podcast studio and greenscreen as well mics, webcam and lighting, while the Djilaga Makers Room features a 3D printer, laser cutter and heat press, allowing residents to explore their creativity.

There is also a packed calendar of events and programs. Families can attend Baby Time and Toddler Time, children can attend after-school programs such as Lego or Chess Club and there are regular school holiday programs throughout the year.

The library also hosts practical community services, including a Justice of the Peace document signing service every Thursday evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Public libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They support learning, improve digital inclusion, provide welcoming community spaces and help people access information and services regardless of their circumstances.

Facilities such as Biyal-a become even more important as communities grow.

With Armstrong Creek and Mount Duneed continuing to attract young families, demand for library programs, study facilities, technology and community spaces is only likely to increase in the years to come.

That is why council is continuing to advocate for increased Victorian government funding for public libraries.

While libraries are a shared responsibility between state and local government, councils currently fund around 80 per cent of public library costs across Victoria.

As communities grow and demand for services increases, this funding model is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain.

The Geelong Regional Library Corporation serves more than 128,000 members across our region and welcomes more than 5,000 visits every day.

Last year alone, more than 77,000 children and carers participated in early years literacy programs across the network.

Those figures demonstrate that libraries remain one of the most valuable and widely used public services we provide.

As Chair of Council’s Finance Portfolio, I see libraries as an investment that delivers significant social and economic returns for our community.

Recognition through a national design award is certainly worth celebrating, but what matters most is the impact Biyal-a has had on our local Armstrong Creek and Mount Duneed residents.

If you have not visited yet, I encourage you to take a look at what is on offer. You might be surprised by just how much happens inside this remarkable facility.

To explore upcoming events and programs at Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library, visit events.grlc.vic.gov.au

Cr Andrew Katos

Deakin ward, City of Greater Geelong