The Mibus Memorial Cultural Centre in Horsham is undergoing extensive renovations.
The two-storey facility accommodates the Wimmera Regional Library Corporation’s Horsham Branch and the Makers Gallery and Studio.
Renovation works will include a lift, entrance and toilet upgrades, and a new air-conditioning system.
Horsham Rural City Council’s Community Services Manager Angela Murphy said that until now, the upstairs area had only been accessible via a flight of stairs, leaving the library restricted to ground floor use only.
“The new lift and toilet facilities will provide universal access to the first floor, making it accessible for everyone in the community to participate in library and art and craft activities.
“The entrance area will be expanded to provide more space for mobility scooters, wheelchairs and prams, and we are also installing a modern, energy efficient heating and cooling system.”
Currently the library has moved to Horsham’s Gateway Centre, whilst the Makers Studio has relocated to Federation University.
The Maker’s Gallery shop will be closed until works are completed.
Ms Murphy thanked the Gateway Centre for their support.
“They have provided us with a fantastic facility for the library, enabling Council to keep this important community service open during the renovations.
“Already we are welcoming some new faces to the library.
“We hope the temporary move will generate a new audience.
“Federation University has also been supportive in providing a temporary studio for local artists to complete art and craft activities.”
The $450,000 renovations, which are due to be completed by the start of October, were made possible by funding from the Putting Locals First and Living Libraries Infrastructure Programs, Horsham Rural City Council and the Maker’s Gallery and Studio.
“We are very excited about this important project at the Mibus Memorial Cultural Centre.
“This upgrade provides us with a multi-purpose community facility that is accessible to all people in the community.”
