Fifteen years ago, in the aftermath of losses brought on by the devastating Black Saturday fires, a critical question was posed to the Whittlesea community.
They were asked to name things of importance that would help them through the crisis – on the list was a permanent library.
So, Yarra Plenty Regional Library chief executive Jane Cowell said, work began to create one as part of the Whittlesea Community and Activity Centre.
That was a decade ago.
“Ten years since the doors opened, the community’s instinct has been proven correct,” Ms Cowell said.
“Anyone who uses the library today can see that it has become an important community hub — a place where people can gather, share interests, ideas, and read and learn.”
The Whittlesea Library recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, and according to Ms Cowell, the biggest achievement recorded in all those years is “bringing the library experience to people in new ways”.
From regular story time sessions for toddlers, to technology classes for seniors, the space has become a “loved and valued part of the Whittlesea community”.
“Aside from the huge range of resources we have in our collections, the library’s broad range of programs bring the community together in many different ways,” Ms Cowell said.
“We are a safe and welcoming space.
“We are warm in the winter, cool in the summer and have a kettle on the ready to provide a free cuppa when [people] need one. We are here to help – always – and that is something the community can celebrate.”
Prealene Khera
