Two years after Geelong council’s library budget fiasco, the Chilwell Library is undergoing a major redevelopment.
The sod was officially turned last Friday (August 8) at the library in Sladen Park, Newtown, with Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj, member for Geelong Christine Couzens and library representatives in attendance to mark the milestone.
The $2.5 million upgrade will, according to council statements, “transform the beloved library into a modern, light-filled community hub while preserving its intimate, neighbourhood charm”.
The redevelopment, which began in July and is expected to be complete mid-next year, will include meeting rooms, an outdoor deck and improved amenities.
It’s a remarkable turnaround for the library, which was slated for closure by the council in 2018, a decision that was reversed after significant public backlash.
Then, in 2023 the council announced sweeping cuts to library funding, which resulted in Geelong Regional Libraries (GRLC) announcing Chilwell Library would transition to an ‘unstaffed model’.
Once again, the people had their say, with councillors reinstating enough library funding to ensure the library could continue operating normally.
During 2023 barbs were traded between councillors and GRLC, but last week it was all smiles as the library’s upgrade was celebrated.
GRLC chief executive Vanessa Schernickau said public libraries were “far more than bricks and books; they’re vital community hubs”.
“Chilwell Library is the perfect example of that, and we can’t wait to welcome people through the doors into the revamped space,” Ms Schernickau said.
“We’re grateful to the City of Greater Geelong and the state government for funding for this much appreciated redevelopment.”
Chilwell Library Group is composed of six women who decided to fight for the public facility back in 2018.
With a range of ages and backgrounds, the group has been instrumental in the reversal of the library’s fortunes.
Member Lynne Dowling said the redevelopment had taken years of advocacy.
“After eight years of advocating for a meeting room and toilets at Chilwell Library, our group of six is delighted by this long awaited outcome,” Ms Dowling said.
With Chilwell Library temporarily closed, community members are advised to visit nearby libraries including the Geelong Library & Heritage Centre, Geelong West Library, Belmont Library and Highton Library.
Visit geelongaustralia.com.au/clr for more information and updates on the project.
