The new Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library was officially opened last week.
Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan officiated over proceedings, which began with a Welcome to Country and concluded with Mayor Sullivan cutting a garland of red gums during the event on Thursday, July 25.
The name Biyal-a is a Wadawurrung expression referring to the Armstrong Creek valley-scape and its watercourse as a place of many red gums.
The $21.864 million facility, funded by Geelong council ($20.364m) and the Victorian government ($1.5m), will be operated by the Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC).
GRLC chief executive Vanessa Schernickau said libraries were 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,” Ms Schernickau said.
“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.”
Mayor Sullivan said the opening was 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,” Mayor Sullivan said.
“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.”
The library will be open to the public from Thursday, August 1.
