Byron Bay Library and Art Space

Byron Bay’s library is approaching its first anniversary in its new location on the corner of Lawson and Middleton streets. The new library was opened in February 2013 providing a larger, lighter, more elegant and environmentally sustainable space.

The land the library was built on was given to the community for use as a gathering place for lifelong learning under an Indigenous Land Use Agreement. In recognition of this contribution by the Bundjalung of Byron Bay-Arakwal People, a room has been set up in the library with archival material and space for Indigenous research.

There’s a lot more going on than just borrowing books, magazines, DVDs and music at this modern branch of the Richmond-Tweed Regional Library system. Several exhibition spaces are available for Byron Shire’s many artists and craftspeople.

For younger members of the community Byron Bay Library offers Storytime on Tuesday mornings and Baby Bounce on Wednesday mornings.

 

When the new Byron library opened last year, Mayor Richardson acknowledged the many people who had worked for years to get the project up and running.

“The story of the new Byron Bay Library features many remarkable people.  From past Councillors who time and time again supported resolutions to help progress the building, to the dedicated Byron Bay Friends of the Library who were determined to see the project delivered and the Richmond Tweed Regional Library staff who have been patiently waiting for their new home.”

The Byron library was the first public building in the Shire to attain a 5 Star Green Environmental rating. In addition to passive solar design to take advantage of natural lighting, heating and ventilation, the building has its own rainwater tanks, geothermal heat pump, photoelectric cells and a green wall of vegetation to shield the east side of the library from heat and noise from the car park.

If you haven’t yet visited the Byron branch of the Richmond-Tweed Regional Library, come and check it out. You’ll be impressed with all it has to offer.

Byron Bay Library is supported by an active group of Library Friends – more information about the Friends and how to become a member at www.byronbayfol.com

 

by Ed Silk Byron Bay

mob: 0418 660 063
tel: 02 6680 8668