Creating community hubs around libraries is a key part of the City of Whittlesea’s commitment to building strong, sustainable and connected communities. As part of this drive, in February Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Sam Alessi, opened the new Thomastown Library and Community Centre.
One of the highlights of this redevelopment is the public art. Local community members are immortalised in a curved and winding series of glass panels featuring their images as you enter the library and community centre. A magnificent water themed mosaic adorns the library courtyard. And paintings by local artist John Borrack form part of the John and Gillian Borrack bequest to Council for the community to enjoy.
The community centre features three meeting rooms, three consulting rooms, an IT room with 16 computers, lounge, storage area and kitchenette.
Councillor Alessi said by establishing a community centre at the library, Thomastown now has a vibrant community focal point and already, patronage at both facilities has been boosted.
“The Thomastown Library and Community Centre creates a meeting place for local residents. It also sets a standard for other Local Governments to follow.”
Disability access has been fully upgraded and it has tactile and Braille signs.
Cr Alessi envisages local agencies and community groups will use the new facility for things like youth outreach programs, women’s groups, computer courses and teaching English as a second language.
The office space will be available to visiting professionals, such as maternal and child health nurses, legal advisors and financial counsellors.
“We’ve consulted very closely with members of the local community in creating this vital facility to ensure it meets people’s needs and gives Thomastown a dynamic focal point,” the Mayor said.
Council funded more than $1.3 million of the $2.2 million dollar project, in addition to its ongoing funding of development and maintenance of the existing library.
