28 April, 2010

New Libraries in the West


Altona North Library

Last week I joined 60 or so other public library staff visiting 3 beautiful new libraries in the western suburbs. Point Cook and Altona North are brand new buildings, both real community hubs incorporating other council services; and St Albans has had a complete makeover and was packed to the rafters when we visited after school.

What these 3 libraries demonstrated was that in this age of digital information public libraries are still seen as vital community places and the 3 councils, Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and Brimbank are all investing heavily in providing these facilities to their communities.

What we saw were state of the art buildings, all incorporated self service and RFID, all had lots of screens and all were being very heavily used. It's a great time to be in public libraries!

19 April, 2010

Eltham Library redevelopment



The Eltham Library redevelopment is moving ahead, and today a wall went up inside the library to enable the builder to start internal works. The extension is starting to take shape and the photo shows the wall of the new children's library. The new library will feature more spaces to sit and read, more space for training and technology and more space for children, both inside and outside. It is going to be wonderful!