Writing the Next Chapter Together

With the smallest footprint in the Maribyrnong Library Service, Yarraville Library, located on Wembley Avenue, already boasts close to 3,000 registered library members with more than a third aged between 40 and 65.

With the local population forecast to increase 34% to 21,688 by 2051, the challenge is how the library can continue to meet the needs of a growing community given current size constraints.

While the intimate nature of the current library is one of the things we know users love, the footprint of the nearly 70-year-old building (just 120 square metres) is also problematic in terms of accessibility and delivery of services, now and into the future.

We already know our public libraries are places for discovery and connection.

During the engagement on the Library Plan 2023-25, we clearly heard things that matter to you include: a greater diversification in our collections and programs, more flexible and updated library spaces to relax with friends or study, and areas to explore creative pursuits. This is in addition to traditional library services such as borrowing books and reading newspapers or magazines.

To help deliver this next chapter for the Yarraville Library, we’re looking to library lovers and residents to help us understand the things that are important to them and what they would like from their library to inform our future thinking. We're keen to know for example:

  • is the library currently meeting your needs
  • what you love about your local library in Yarraville
  • things you'd like to see that are not currently provided

We are now considering your feedback with a view to sharing an update in early 2024.

While it is the smallest library in the Maribyrnong Library Service, Yarraville Library is well-loved and supported by local residents and families - including those attending nearby Wembley Primary School and Clare Court Kindergarten.

It is open Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm and on Saturday 10am to 2pm.

Books for adults and children are available to browse and borrow with around 400 program sessions also offered annually attracting more than 6,000 visitors to storytimes, book groups, creative programs, and events designed to support and connect our community.

All programs are delivered in the adult reading area on the upper tier, children's reading area or in the outdoor courtyard.

Library facilities include computer access, free Wi-Fi, printing, photocopying and scanning facilities. The outdoor courtyard has Wi-Fi, tables, chairs and picnic mats for the community to access.

There are no rooms or facilities to hire at the current site and not all library spaces are currently accessible to visitors with mobility issues.

The library is currently served by two toilets but does not have an accessible toilet, parents' room or other amenities to support all parts of the community.

The restricted footprint of the existing building on Wembley Avenue constraints our ability to expand into new areas of service delivery.

Questionnaire