Hobsons Bay council’s first Centre of Excellence opened to the community in Altona Meadows on Saturday, October 21.
More than 3200 people attended the event, which was officially opened by Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa, deputy mayor Diana Grima and Point Cook MP Mat Hilakari.
The refurbished Altona Meadows Library is now a STEAM Centre of Excellence, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
Council said the centre will provide the same library and council+ services residents have come to expect and enjoy.
Now, it will also serve as a hub designed to help residents be innovative and learn through collaborative projects and workshops.
It features technology pods and media podcast room, an interactive floor feature, two robots, an interactive sandpit, a newly landscaped outdoor area, brand new public computers with Adobe Suite access, an extensive Library of Things collection which includes new items across content creation, accessibility and STEAM technologies, a curated STEAM book collection, large meeting room with stadium seating and virtual presentation equipment, and a Makerspace purpose built for collaboration and creation.
Council said over coming years, the Civic Centre and each library across Hobsons Bay will become a Centre of Excellence with a dedicated theme, including video and board games; environment and sustainability; heritage, writing and publishing; art and music; and business, entrepreneurship and innovation.
The refurbishment was made possible due to a $500,000 contribution from the state government through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
Cr Briffa said the Altona Meadows Library is an exciting and innovative place for community members.
“For all ages to access an array of information, resources, tools and fun about all things science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics,” she said.
“I am thrilled to see the popular Altona Meadows Library reopened following extensive renovations, and our first Centre of Excellence in action.
“Libraries have always been important places in our community, and now with council+ services and the start of our Centres of Excellence strategy, they’re going to become even more valuable places for our residents.”
