The new Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library has been officially opened.
Mayor Trent Sullivan opened the landmark facility by cutting a garland of red gums – linking to the name and place story of the building – during a gathering on Thursday.
Jointly funded by the Council ($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 at 10am on Thursday 1 August.
The distinctive building, designed by Buchan Architects and built by Nicholson Construction, features more than 30,000 new books and resources, a children's story time area, outdoor terraces and multipurpose and creative spaces – including media studio and maker space.
Designed in close consultation with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to create a 'living water' narrative, it is pursuing a 5 Star Green Star Buildings Certification.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney:
I'm really pleased to see the Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library open. It's more than a building; it's a beacon of knowledge, community, and cultural enrichment.Libraries are vital hubs where ideas flourish and learning thrives, underscoring our commitment to education and inclusivity. This space will bring residents together to learn, create, and grow. I commend everyone involved and look forward to the positive impact this library will have on our community.
Mayor Trent Sullivan:
The official opening is 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.
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.
Geelong Regional Libraries CEO Vanessa Schernickau:
Libraries are 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!
'Biyal-a' (pronounced Be-al-a) is a Wadawurrung expression reflecting the Armstrong Creek valley-scape and its watercourse as a place of many red gums.
Opening hours (from Thursday 1 August)
Monday: 10:00am-6:00pm
Tuesday: 10:00am-6:00pm
Wednesday: 10:00am-6:00pm
Thursday: 10:00am-8:00pm
Friday: 10:00am-6:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am-1:00pm
Sunday: 2:00pm-4:30pm
