Come along and celebrate the beautiful new Kangaroo Flat Library

The new Kangaroo Flat Library is now open, and we want you to come and celebrate with us! The library opened in June last year, but due to Covid-19 restrictions, celebrations haven’t been possible, until now!

Come along from 9.30am on Saturday 20 February for lots of fun including face painting, live music, craft activities, a special storytime, tours of the new space and the official unveiling of bespoke Indigenous artwork. Official proceedings will commence at 11am.

Formerly the Lockwood Road Senior Citizens Centre, the unused building has been modernised, and repurposed into a light, bright and colourful library space for the community. Along with its striking façade, the new library boasts almost 50 per cent more space, free public computers, free Wi-Fi, lounge spaces, a children’s area, and a beautiful atrium – although that is still yet to be finished.

The new library is also home to a new, bespoke artwork created by local Dja Dja Wurrung artist Daikota Nelson, installed as pride of place on the front counter. The artwork is part of the ongoing commitment of Goldfields Libraries to acknowledge and celebrate our First Nations communities and the history of our area.

“Libraries are modern keepers and sharers of knowledge, information and stories. We would like to reflect and respect the Dja Dja Wurrung community, the original and continuing knowledge holders, wisdom keepers and storytellers of these lands,” said Goldfields Libraries Manager of Engagement, Lucy Mayes.

The move to Lockwood Road is a strong investment in Kangaroo Flat’s future and an innovative solution for the future of the Kangaroo Flat Library. The new space is close to the Kangaroo Flat shops, Bendigo Community Health Services, Bendigo Creek walking trails, public transport, and as the City of Greater Bendigo owns the land on both sides of the site, has the potential for development into a new community hub.

“We’re very excited about the new Kangaroo Flat Library!  Having an official celebration with the community, at last, will really make it feel like home for everyone.” says Kangaroo Flat Library Manager, Kinta Walker.

Funding for the project was provided by the City of Greater Bendigo, A Victorian Living Libraries Grant and Goldfields Library Corporation.

To find out more about the new Kangaroo Flat Library visit www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/kangarooflatlibraryrelocation