Cr Hanna El Mouallem, Bayside Mayor Cr Debbie Taylor-Haynes, Ryan Batchelor MP, Deputy Mayor Cr Andrew Hockley and CEO Matthew Cripps at Brighton Library for the announcement.
A major upgrade to Brighton Library will make Bayside’s busiest library more comfortable, sustainable, accessible and welcoming for the community.
Supported by a $1 million Victorian Government Living Libraries Infrastructure Program grant announced by Ryan Batchelor MP, the project will improve the much-loved community facility while respecting the heritage of the building.
The upgrade will replace the existing heating and cooling system to improve year-round comfort and use best-practice sustainable design.
Bayside Mayor, Cr Debbie Taylor-Haynes said the project would deliver a revamped front entrance and courtyard with an improved layout, a more inviting and accessible children’s area and a dedicated maker space to meet demand for creative programming.
“It is a shared investment in a community resource that is loved and revered by Bayside residents,” she said.
“This project is about more than improving this building, it is about creating an even better place for people to learn, connect and feel part of their community.”
Mr Batchelor said Bayside’s libraries played an important role in the community serving users of all ages as places to connect as well as borrow materials.
“This funding is another example of partnership between the State Government and Council to improve local infrastructure and facilities,” he said.
Work is expected to begin in early 2027 under Council’s Capital Works Program.
Brighton Library is an important community hub for people of all ages. It welcomed almost 167,000 visitors last financial year and regularly attracts participants to story times and school holiday programs. It is also an important study space for local students.
The library hosts activities that build community connections, including book chats, book groups, author talks and Crafty Connections.
Across Bayside, libraries delivered 2,107 programs and events attended by more than 36,000 people last financial year. Residents also regularly rank libraries among Council’s highest-rated services in the annual customer satisfaction survey.
