20 Jan, 2014

New City library a step closer to opening

The City of Adelaide is pleased to announce a new partnership arrangement with SA Writers’ Centre and the iconic Adelaide Writers’ Week Festival that will commence when the new City Library opens on 7th February 2014.

The partnership means users of the library will have access to some of South Australia’s and the world’s most talented writers through workshops and events programmed during the first phase of the new library’s opening.

General Manager of City Culture and Community Services Sandy Verschoor says the project is gaining momentum and the addition of Adelaide Writers’ Week and the SA Writers’ Centre to the program of activities is bound to be interesting and engaging.

“We are very pleased to announce the partnership and look forward to a long and successful association with both of these acclaimed organisations,” said Sandy.

“Over the coming months we will unveil programs and activities to suit a broad range of community members, so watch this space.”

Adelaide Writers’ Week Director Laura Kroetsch is hugely excited about the new library, not just as a well-known frequenter of libraries, but also as a member of the Adelaide community.

“It’s not often you can say that a public space gets it just right. As I walked around the library for the first time I could only smile thinking – this place is amazing,” Laura said.

“What a joy to see a public space that is beautiful and purpose made for people to really use. This is a new kind of library, one that puts its community at the fore, and has done this very well,” she said.

City of Adelaide Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood is also looking forward to the opportunity for Council to work with key writing organisations and intends to make use of the resources that present themselves.

“The new library is innovative and future-ready, and that’s what the City of Adelaide is all about – embracing the future whilst respecting the past,” said Stephen.

“Both the location and the fit out of the library sends a clear message that we are making a space that is modern and interactive. Whilst of course there will still be traditional books on the shelves, there’ll be lots of opportunities to try out new technologies and learn new skills.”

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the library take shape, and of course seeing the people of Adelaide enjoy the new, modern library space,” he said.

“There are lots of exciting plans in the pipeline for the new City Library facility, and people should keep a lookout for new programs and activities as they are announced so they don’t miss out.”

For more information on the new City Library go to cityofadelaide.com.au/library

Rebecca Draysey