Knox Library receives upgrade as part of Living Libraries Program

Knox Library is set to undergo a massive upgrade from next year as part of the State Government’s Living Libraries Program.

Knox Council has been given a $450,000 grant for the upgrade, which will see Knox Library double in size and move into Knox Ozone.

Going from the picture above, the library’s proposed new location looks to be the space above JB HI-FI, previously held by the old Village Cinemas.

The upgrade also comes in line with the Westfield Knox redevelopment.

This will give the library much more prominence and see it used as more of a community hub – much like Realm in Eastland’s Town Square in Ringwood.

Knox Library is a key part of Knox City Shopping Centre, and has been at its current location since first opening on November 8th, 1977.

The news was announced at the library yesterday, with Mayor Cr Nicole Seymour, Jackson Taylor MP for Bayswater, and Minister for Local Government Adem Somyurek MP all in attendance.

‘The Knox Central Library is a popular spot for locals of all ages and this redevelopment will mean even more families will be able to enjoy it,’ said Jackson Taylor.

‘Libraries are about so much more than books,’ said Adem Somyurek. ‘They strengthen and provide vital services to Victorian communities. We’re working with councils to improve libraries right across Victoria so they can better meet the needs of their communities.’

The Living Libraries program has seen $4.1 million given to 12 community libraries across the state. The funding will help libraries across Victoria to buy new books and e-resources, and deliver programs including story time for children and outreach services.

Stay tuned – further details to come.

You can also visit the Knox Council website here.

Article originally appears at Ferntree Gully News.