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Newtown’s Chilwell Library has received a $150,000 grant for its planned modernization.
The City of Greater Geelong has successfully secured grant funding from the state government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Programme.
The council’s 2021-22 budget included an allocation of $100,000 for design work, while an additional $900,000 for construction work is expected in the 2022-23 budget.
DE Atelier Architects were commissioned to work with the Geelong Regional Library Corporation, the Friends of Chilwell Library group and community stakeholders on the redesign of the library.
Detailed planning will be completed by June and construction is scheduled to begin in September.
Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan said, “We know this modernization is important to the community of Newtown.
“Chilwell Library is a popular community property that has served its community since 1958.
“The upgrade will create spaces that more than double the library’s capacity and provide opportunities for more diverse programming for all ages.”
The city previously announced its plan to modernize the library, and late last year sought feedback from the community to ensure it remains community-focused but better integrated with the surrounding park.
The redevelopment complements the city’s planned investments in new libraries in Armstrong Creek, Drysdale and Lara.
Geelong Regional Library Corporation chairman Ron Nelson said the investment underscores the council’s commitment to providing quality libraries across the region.
“Libraries are an integral part of our communities; You help foster a lifelong love of reading and learning, helping people develop new skills, developing digital literacy, accessing support and information, and meeting people,” said Cr Nelson.
Geelong MP Christine Couzens welcomed the government’s pledge of funding.
“I know how much the Chilwell Library is valued by the local community as a place to meet and learn,” said Ms. Couzens.
“The state government is proud to support this upgrade to provide a modern library facility that the community deserves.”
Details: yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/CLR
