Sunshine Coast Libraries in the running for national design award
Sunshine Coast Libraries has been nominated for the 2019 Australian Library and Information Association Library Design Awards following the $2.48 million contemporary upgrade at Coolum Library.
Sunshine Coast Libraries has been nominated for the 2019 Australian Library and Information Association Library Design Awards following the $2.48 million contemporary upgrade at Coolum Library.
These awards, presented every two years, highlight the achievements of some of Australia’s leading architects, designers and library leaders.
Division 9 Councillor Stephen Robinson said new Coolum Library was a fitting reflection of its proximity to both the coast and the hinterland.
“Coolum is renowned as a holiday destination and the new interior theming captured Coolum’s coastline, sunsets, trees, mountains and history,” Cr Robinson said.
“The improvements included an inviting reconfigured entry and an expansion of the children’s zone, allowing for dedicated areas for storytelling, reading nooks and tables for colouring in and other children’s activities.
“Visitors love the additional floor space and dedicated event zone which is now being used for library programs, events and community meetings.
“The new open timber deck area has also proven to be very popular. Our library guests can enjoy the picturesque backdrop of Jack Morgan Park while reading a good book, enjoying lunch or a coffee.
“The Coolum Library upgrade is an excellent example of council’s commitment to investing in library operations and infrastructure to ensure they remain relevant and responsive to new and existing audiences.
“It also aligns with our vision for the Sunshine Coast to be Australia’s most sustainable region – healthy, smart, creative.”
Sponsored by Architecture AU, Raeco, the State Library of Queensland, the ALIA Library Design Awards celebrate design excellence in new and refurbished libraries across Australia and have been developed in the context of other competitions internationally.
"The Coolum Library as part of Sunshine Coast Libraries is a quite space close to the hub of the local community. The library also functions as the local community centre and therefore provides an invaluable service to the area," ALIA CEO Sue McKerracher said.
A shortlist will be announced early in the New Year and the winning libraries in three categories – public, school and academic – will be announced at the 2019 Library Design Awards Conference as part of the Asia-Pacific Architecture Forum.
The conference will be held at the State Library of Queensland, Brisbane, in March.