General News
24 February, 2025
Dunmunkle library opens in Rupanyup
Dunmunkle Community Library Precinct officially opened in Rupanyup last Friday, February 14, after Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora joined hands with Yarriambiack Shire Council's mayor, councillors and chief executive officer to mark the completion of a major redevelopment.
The project, delivered in two phases, transformed the old Dunmunkle Shire building into a modern library space and revitalised its outdoor areas.
The redevelopment cost $1,032,094, with funding from the state government's Living Library Infrastructure Fund and the Commonwealth's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure fund.
Yarriambiack mayor Kylie Zanker highlighted the key features of the renovation, which included designated spaces for library services, a quite area, a makers' and craft zone and a children's section.
The upgraded facility now includes an accessible toilet, a children's changing area, a kitchenette and a self-service library model, allowing the community greater access to resources.
The second phase focused on the outdoor environment, adding landscaped gardens, smooth accessible pathways, disability parking, a children's play area, shade pergolas and new plantings.
The upgraded outdoor space will also accommodate food vans and entertainment activities.
"Our objective is to expand the range of services available to our community by implementing a self-service model," Cr Zanker said.
"Additionally, we aim for the building to provide opportunities for conducting classes, events, information sessions and programs for early years and youth, as well as offering access to technology.
"The facility will also support an on-site, in-venue childcare program."
Ms Ermacora praised the state government's commitment to library infrastructure.
"The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program helps Victorian councils and regional library corporations provide high-quality library infrastructure to meet their communities’ changing needs," Ms Ermacora said.
"Libraries are about so much more than books.
"They contribute to the connections that strengthen and enrich Victorian communities.
"They support a culture that values reading, learning and social connection."
The library will open at least four days a week, with plans to extend access to seven days through self-service technology.
The refurbished facility now offers expanded borrowing capacity, digital resources and multi-purpose spaces for community groups and activities.
Cr Zanker thanked the state and federal governments for their funding, mentioning that council could not have completed the project without their support.
"We eagerly anticipate sharing this revitalised asset with our community," she said.