Construction on the new Knox Library is set to commence as a part of the major redevelopment of Westfield Knox.
Doubling the size of the old library, the 2,000 square metre facility includes a garden room, computer area, meeting rooms, desk space, study booths, lounges, a youth area and a children’s area.
Knox City Mayor Susan Laukens said it was exciting to see work begin.
“Knox Library is our busiest branch and we expect the new library will attract a whole new clientele,” she said.
“Having a library with extended trading hours, located in a thriving shopping centre and close to plenty of parking will make it even more convenient for people to visit.”
The $3.65 million project was partially funded by the State Government through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
Mayor Laukens said libraries are about so much more than just books.
“While there will still be an impressive collection of books, DVDs and other items for people to borrow, the new library will be a contemporary space where people can meet, read, study, work or just relax,” she said.
“The modern new library embraces evolving and changing lifestyles but it will still be a place where people can enjoy valued traditions like children’s story time, school holiday and after-school activities, guest speakers and book discussions.”
Knox City Council’s youth information centre will be relocated from behind Knox Ozone to the library once construction is complete. The temporary Knox Express Library will be offering a small collection of picture books, junior books, adult fiction, select non-fiction and magazines until construction is complete.
