Planning of Central Coast's first Regional Library moves forward

As the first regional library for the NSW Central Coast - the Gosford Regional Library - anticipates becoming a central meeting point for both locals and visitors, creating a drawcard to the city centre.

With libraries being at the heart of creating liveable, connected and sustainable cities, the vision for the Gosford Regional Library is to create a building in the heart of the Gosford CBD where community can connect, create and collaborate.

Created over four spacious levels, it will include space to connect, to learn and to do business with Council; a space for children to find a love of literacy through interaction and play; flexible function space, for special occasions and larger audiences; breakout spaces on every level for private and collaborative learning or just to relax and take in the views of the city and beyond; a smart work hub for those who want a great place to work without the commute and dedicated meeting rooms, recording studios and exhibition space; and library collections on every subject in one place.

The building will act as the central library for the Central Coast, providing:

• A ‘third space’ for the community

• A library collection curated for the community

• Spaces for programs, meetings and events to be held which promote literacy, learning, creativity and knowledge

• Access to the digital world, allowing access to new and existing technologies

• Creative spaces that foster connected communities

• A destination for those interested in local history

• A collaborative and inspirational environment, designed to attract a community of like-minded, makers, creators and innovative thinkers and connection for people to technical and professional resources

• A facility for Central Coast commuters to work closer to home

• Accessible Council customer service points

• Flexible spaces for events and activities

The Gosford Regional Library project funding of $27,700,000 is being met through the following funding sources:

• Council Special Rate Variation (former Gosford City Council): $8,100,000

• Federal Government Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development’s Community Grants Program: $7,000,000

• Developer Contributions: $8,500,000

• Sale proceeds - 136-146 Donnison Street, Gosford (‘Kibbleplex’ Building): $4,100,000

This project would not be possible without the commitment from the Federal Government, as well as from the local community who helped pay for the library over many years through the former Gosford City Council’s special rate levy.

A development application for the Gosford Regional Library is to be submitted to the Department of Planning for Development Consent in the coming days. If successful, Central Council will commence demolition of the current 123A Donnision Street site in April/May 2021, with construction due to commence in October 2021. Completion is expected by December 2023.

Image courtesy of centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/