Victorian government announces $83.1m State Library redevelopment

The Victorian government has announced a $83.1 million redevelopment of the State Library of Victoria (SLV), with work on the five-year project scheduled to begin next year.

The redevelopment includes the refurbishment of Queen’s Hall—including the creation of a rooftop garden terrace—for public use; reopening the library’s Russell Street entrance; the creation of a dedicated children’s and youth space; improved conference facilities; a centre for digital media, focused on new and emerging technologies; and an innovation centre, providing small, medium and start-up businesses hot desks and space to collaborate.

The project also includes an ‘e-town hall’ initiative, allowing the library to stream programs, meetings and events to local libraries across the state, as part of the government’s aim to extend the library’s reach. The redevelopment will increase the library’s public space by 40%.

Creative Industries minister Martin Foley said the government has committed $55.4 million over five years for the redevelopment, with the library working to secure $28 million in philanthropic contributions. ‘This project is one of the keys to enriching our creative industries and building the knowledge-economy future of our state,’ said Foley.

Acting SLV CEO and state librarian Justine Hyde said the redevelopment ‘is all about the library’s next phase—it will reach more Victorians to enable them to benefit from the resources, expertise, facilities and digital experiences that the library can provide’.

Category: Local news