Parramatta’s newest library secures finalist nomination for Public Library of the Year global award  

Housed in the city’s PHIVE building, Parramatta’s new library is one of four global finalists for the Public Library of the Year award.

The award recognises new public libraries offering functional architecture, creative IT solutions and that are strengthening local culture.

The four finalists for IFLA Public Library of the Year are:

• Parramatta Library at PHIVE in Australia

• Public Library Janez Vajkard Valvasor in Slovenia

• Gabriel García Márquez Library in Spain

• Shanghai Library East in China.

Parramatta Library occupies two floors of PHIVE, the City’s community, cultural and civic hub at 5 Parramatta Square.

PHIVE was designed by French firm Manuelle Gautrand Architecture in conjunction with Australian firms DesignInc and Lacoste + Stevenson.

PHIVE is one of Australia’s first carbon neutral buildings, setting a new standard for public spaces.

Lord Mayor Sameer Pandey said Parramatta would be up against new libraries in Slovenia, Spain and China and added “Since opening its doors last September, Parramatta Library at PHIVE has become a much-loved cultural hub for people of all ages – a community and cultural hub that is now rightly recognised as world-class.

“Our library is home to more than 65,000 books and importantly celebrates so many local stories. However, it’s more than just a place to read with creative and maker spaces, exhibition spaces and a packed program of learning experiences making it a place for inspiration, discovery and connection.

“Great global cities need great cultural hubs and our library is one of them.

“Its connection to Parramatta Square has created an urban loungeroom for our City – a place where the community can come together, create, collaborate and learn. These awards will shine a global spotlight on just how special it is.”

The winner of Public Library of the Year will be announced in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, on 21st August.

Image top: Library; Image centre: Level 1 includes a dedicated children’s space, with a large kids book collection and plenty of space to stretch their imaginations; image above exterior of PHIVE building