Local book lovers will rejoice as the Schrinner Council continues to invest in library upgrades and improvements to ensure the community can access the latest technology and high-quality facilities.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said million-dollar refurbishment works will kick off this financial year at Inala library to update the popular space which served local residents for more than 57 years.

“No matter your age or interest, there will be something for everyone as part of the more than $1.3 million refurbishment including a new meeting room with kitchenette and audio-visual equipment, a vibrant children’s space to support early literacy development, increased seating, a reading lounge, study space and a community table,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Customer returns to the library will also be made easier and more efficient with the installation of a SmartBlade automated returns shelf, with works expected to be completed in this space by late 2021.”

“There are more than 42,000 items in this diverse library collection including resources in Vietnamese, Spanish, Samoan and Sinhalese and events on offer include regular children’s literacy sessions, English conversation groups and classes to help people learn computer basics and we look forward to making local patrons library experiences even better.”

The Inala library refurbishment comes after a $348,000 upgrade was completed at Kenmore library with improvements including new paint and carpet, more lighting and desks and a SmartBlade returns shelf installed.

The Schrinner Council also invested $220,000 to replace Mt Ommaney Library’s air conditioning units; the project is expected to be complete at the end of the month.

Cr Schrinner said major investments would also be made at the Everton Park and Zillmere libraries, with local residents to reap major benefits.

“The local community in Everton Park have spoken and we’ve listened with a $11.6 million plan for a new, double-sized facility featuring multi-purpose spaces, meeting rooms, computer lounge, vibrant children’s space, dedicated quiet room, balcony and terrace spaces,” he said.

“The new Everton Park library is expected to be handed over to the community in late 2023.

“Planning is also underway for a refurbishment at Zillmere library which has been serving locals since 1971.”

The Inala Library refurbishment has been partially funded by the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure grant program and the Federal Member for Oxley Milton Dick welcomed the initiative.

“The Inala Library is a pillar of our local community, providing vital services and a fantastic meeting space to the incredibly multicultural community that it serves,” he said.

For more information, please visit our website or contact Council on (07) 3403 8888.