Canberra's libraries have served as a constant for many in the community, but now the ACT government wants to hear the loudest ideas about how to future-proof the shared spaces.
From virtual reality rooms to "maker spaces" which feature sewing machines or power tools - all feedback is welcome in the community consultation program, which will aim to get libraries ready to meet evolving needs.
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Over 11 years spent working in ACT libraries, Woden Branch Manager Anna Malone has come to see these spaces as some of Canberra's most egalitarian.
"[Libraries] are one of the only places you can go regardless of who you are in life, your financial status or employment status, your culture, your identity - anybody can come in, everyone's welcome," she said.
"They can stay all day ... it's a real welcoming space."
Last year's coronavirus lockdown and the closure of libraries called attention to their function as a meeting place for many.
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"They'll always be known for book borrowing and children's programs and things like that, but they've also become a really essential social hub for the community, people that are particularly living alone, or [the] socially isolated," Ms Malone said.
She pointed to new facilities at Woden Library as an example of their changing functions.
"We've also got new technology, new spaces that we've just opened. So you can come and you know, record some music or record a podcast or do a yoga class or yes, just evolving more into community spaces now," she said.
Libraries ACT Executive Branch Manager Vanessa Little said in a statement that the pandemic had "highlighted the importance of innovation, flexibility and speed in being able to evolve service delivery".
"Whilst the pandemic has been an exceptional situation, it has brought into sharper focus some of the compelling reasons why Libraries ACT need to look further into the future and plan now for our changing lives and changing city," she said.
Feedback can be provided online via yoursayconversations.act.gov.au, or people can visit any of the nine public library branches which are hosting workshops, though booking is essential.
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Miriam Webber
I'm the Canberra Times' city reporter, digging into how the capital is developing and the issues affecting residents, businesses and community organisations. Drop me a line at miriam.webber@canberratimes.com.au
I'm the Canberra Times' city reporter, digging into how the capital is developing and the issues affecting residents, businesses and community organisations. Drop me a line at miriam.webber@canberratimes.com.au
