Ipswich City Council has reached a major milestone in its ground-breaking new library experience, with the new Ipswich Central Library today unveiled ahead of its opening to the community on Monday.
The $17 million library is the first of two brand new libraries to open in the city’s new Nicholas Street Precinct, and is the region’s first library specifically designed for adults and teenagers.
Mayor Teresa Harding said it was a landmark occasion for the City of Ipswich and its libraries.
“Ipswich has long been recognised as an industry leader in library services and we continue to deliver Australia’s best libraries to our community,” Mayor Harding said.
“The new Ipswich Central Library represents half of our revolutionary new library experience with the countdown now on to the opening of Australia’s first purpose-built public library for children right here in Ipswich in mid-2021.
“Through these two new libraries, we are creating a better experience for everyone with purpose-built spaces, specifically trained teams and the latest and greatest digital experiences.”
The new single-storey library features an extensive adult collection including an expanded marketplace collection as well as a state-of-the-art makerspace, Ipswich History Room and coffee table book collection.
Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee chair Deputy Mayor Marnie Doyle said the Ipswich Central Library was the centrepiece of the city’s once-in-a-generation redevelopment.
“With the opening of this library, we are giving our community yet another reason to come in to our city and experience our beautiful new Nicholas Street Precinct,” Deputy Mayor Marnie Doyle said.
“The new Ipswich Central Library will play a big role in enticing our residents and visitors in to our city centre.”
The opening of the Ipswich Central Library marks the completion of stage 2 of the redevelopment, which also included the opening of Tulmur Place, the city’s new civic plaza.
Council will deliver stage 3 in mid-2021 with the opening of the administration building and new Children’s Library.
The new Children’s Library will be specifically designed for children aged zero to 12 to explore, learn and play. It will feature age-appropriate technology and digital experiences, an interactive dinosaur, extensive children’s collection, specialised employees and dedicated children’s programs and events.
In the meantime, a 20,000-item strong children’s collection, as well as a dedicated STEAM Lab and Kids’ Corner are available at the Interim Children’s Library at South Street, Ipswich Central.
