Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library set for public opening

THE new Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library has been officially opened, and the public can start browsing the shelves from Thursday next week.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan opened the facility in the Armstrong Creek Town Centre by cutting a garland of red gums – a reference to the name of the building – during a gathering yesterday (Thursday, July 25).

Jointly funded by the city ($20.364 million) and the Victorian government via a Living Libraries grant ($1.5 million), the $21.864 million facility will be operated by the Geelong Regional Library Corporation.

The library will open its doors to the wider community for the first time on Thursday, August 1 at 10am.

The distinctive building, designed by Buchan Architects and built by Nicholson Construction, Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library features more than 30,000 new books and resources, a children’s story time area, outdoor terraces and multipurpose and creative spaces, including a media studio and a maker space.

Designed in close consultation with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to create a “living water” narrative, the library is on the path towards achieving a 5 Star Green Star Buildings Certification.

“Biyal-a” (pronounced Be-al-a) is a Wadawurrung expression reflecting the Armstrong Creek landscape and its watercourse as a place of many red gums.

Dignitaries at the opening included City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan and councillors Anthony Aitken, Melissa Cadwell, Peter Murrihy and Belinda Moloney, Surf Coast Shire mayor and Geelong Regional Libraries board chair Cr Liz Pattison, Borough of Queenscliffe mayor Ross Ebbels, and Geelong Regional Libraries chief executive officer Vanessa Schernickau.

Cr Sullivan said the opening was a landmark day for the growing community in Geelong’s south.

“This is a special building that will support reading and learning, and also serve as a central gathering place for the Armstrong Creek community.

The library’s second floor has a creative studio, co-working spaces, a games room, meeting rooms and a terrace.

“Thanks to everyone who has worked on the project, including Buchan Architects and Nicholson Construction, who have done an outstanding job, to the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners for their input into the design, and to the Victorian government for its funding support.

“We’re now delighted to hand the building over to the Geelong Regional Library Corporation to open the doors to the community.”

Ms Schernickau said libraries were essential to healthy and thriving local communities.

“Biyal-a is a truly modern library – with fully equipped creative spaces, spaces to study, work and read.

There are 30,000 brand new books and resources to borrow, and a jam-packed schedule of events and programs to support early literacy, lifelong learning and community connection.

“In exciting news, we will soon be launching after hours library access at Biyal-a, recognising that traditional hours don’t suit everyone and increasing opportunities for access for the community.

“We’re grateful to the City of Greater Geelong and the Victorian Government for their support, and encourage the local community to come in and explore.”