The Glen Innes Severn community is set to benefit from improved learning, recreation and connection opportunities following a $500,000 funding boost for upgrades to the Glen Innes Severn Learning Centre.
Funded through the NSW Government’s State Library of NSW Public Library Infrastructure Grants program, the project will deliver more accessible, flexible and modern spaces designed to support people of all ages.
Mayor Margot Davis said the investment recognised the important role the Learning Centre plays as a community hub in the region.
“In communities like ours, facilities like the Learning Centre do a lot of heavy lifting,” Davis said.
“They’re places where people come to learn, access services, connect with others and build new skills. This funding recognises that and allows us to strengthen what we already have.”
The upgrades have been designed with community needs in mind, creating spaces that support everything from early childhood programs and youth activities to lifelong learning and social connection.
Children and young people will benefit from a redesigned Children and Youth Area, while improvements to the Children’s Room will provide additional storage and preparation space to support a wider range of programs and activities.
A new soundproof recording room will open up opportunities for residents to develop digital skills, produce creative projects and share local stories through podcasting and other media.
“This is about making sure people in Glen Innes Severn have access to the same kinds of opportunities you’d expect in larger centres,” Davis said.
“From supporting young people to building digital skills, these upgrades help bridge that gap.”
Community spaces throughout the Learning Centre will be reconfigured to better accommodate both quiet study and group activities, with new furniture and modern shelving improving comfort and accessibility for visitors.
The outdoor courtyard will also become a more active community space, with a weatherproof shade sail enabling greater use for programs, events and gatherings throughout the year.
The project also includes new floor coverings, internal and external painting, feature walls and murals, and upgrades to internal and external CCTV systems to improve the facility’s appearance, functionality and security.
“We want to make sure our community has places that support how people live, learn and connect – not just now, but into the future,” Davis said.
Council will provide updates as the project progresses through its communication channels.
For more information about Glen Innes Severn Libraries, visit: https://www.gisc.nsw.gov.au/Community-Services/Library-Services.
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