It’s one of the potential projects included in the new strategic plan for the facility, along with plans to grow membership and borrowing, and to bring more people into the library overall.
Mayor Ashley Hall said the plan outlines some exciting future projects and initiatives for the library, as an extension of a tremendous period of growth and improvement already demonstrated at the library.
The outdoor space is just one of the projects the library aims to have ‘shovel ready’ for when grant funding becomes available.
It will also seek to create more defined spaces in the library, including a learning/work hub and mobile shelving.
Future goals for the library also include outreach programs with local schools and services - including the aged care facilities - and promoting it maker’s space as an area where artists can both create and display their works.
Library staff also hope to host more events for the community, to meet its aim of being “a hub for the community, similar to other modern 21st Century libraries”.
“Through careful redesign the library will be a diverse space that meets a wide range of needs - from quiet, contemplative and sensory aware spaces to active and noisy spaces,” the strategy says.
“The library will be more locally focused and will regularly engage with our users and community to assess our performance and gain a better understanding of community needs.”
This pathway also includes developing greater relationships with surrounding libraries and greater involvement in the NSW Public Libraries Network.
The strategy is clear that the library requires the help and input of the community to meet these goals.
“The library needs to ensure that we engage with the community and collect data on gaps in services and programs needed for the library to become a hub,” the strategy says.
“Based on data collected, our services, programs and events will align with community needs and demands, and will better connect the library to the community.
“More importantly, it will provide opportunities for the community to connect with each other and grow.
“We have a commitment from the council to have allocated funds for services, programs and events.”
The strategy outlines that while library item loans and visits are steadily increasing - by eight per cent and two per cent respectively - digital borrowing is an area of significant growth.
Strategies to further support and grow each will be explored by the library staff over the life of the 2025-2029 strategic plan.
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