Mitcham Memorial Library

Libraries are rapidly evolving from spaces of collection to places of connection. The Mitcham Memorial Library Redevelopment embodies this progress with the revitalisation of an aged and constrained library building into a vibrant facility embracing the digital information era and community engagement.

Previously centred around a collection/borrowing model, Mitcham Memorial Library has evolved to focus on access and engagement. The new library is a place for residents, local businesses and the wider community to come together. The existing building was extended to almost double its size to open up new opportunities for sharing community skills and cross-generational knowledge through classes, events and activities for people of all ages.

Awards

2020 Winner, Excellence in Infrastructure Delivery, Annual Leadership Excellence Awards, Local Government Professionals Australia SA
2019 Excellence in Design and/or Construction of a Public Works Environmental Enhancement Project, Institute Public Works Engineering Australasia (SA)
2019 High Commendation, Community Facility of the Year, Parks & Leisure Australia (SA/NT)
2019 Finalist, Excellence in Environment & Sustainability, Institute Public Works Engineering Australasia
2019 Excellence in Public Realm, Urban Development Institute of Australia (SA)

Location: Kaurna Country
Hawthorn, South Australia
Client: City of Mitcham
Value: $6 million
Scale: 1,650 m²
Year: 2019
Project Contact: Michael Willis
Photography: David Sievers
Share: Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to LinkedIn Share via email

We’re revitalising libraries into vibrant community hubs that embrace the digital information era and social engagement. Underpinned by a seamless integration of technology, the space not only delivers a vital community service, but strives to nurture those who visit. It’s like an extension of the family home – warm, welcoming, and familiar.
Michael Willis
Associate, DesignInc Adelaide

The renovation creates meeting places, quiet zones and training rooms plus dedicated children’s, youth and technology areas. Visitors are welcome to linger and help themselves to tea or coffee while reading, browsing the collection or accessing resources. A gallery, public kitchenette, parents’ room, multiple casual lounge areas and adjacent green spaces encourage visitors to stay for the day to read, work, play or relax.

Located at a gateway to Mitcham’s Brownhill Creek reserve, the modern, warm, and welcoming design engages with the natural parkland setting and neighbouring community and facilities. Flexible meeting rooms extend onto the large deck which overlooks the creek, extending their use into evening functions and community events.

We absolutely adore the extra space and the light and the energy around the kids’ area. The community has really embraced the library.
Gail Mauger
Team Leader, Mitcham Memorial Library, City of Mitcham