The doors have opened to a next-generation library that offers much more than books.
The multi-level Library+ Caloundra includes creative spaces, meeting rooms, venue hire, digital studios, AV booths, a kids’ zone and coffee shop.
The $45.2 million building was officially opened on Monday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony officiated by Anne Wensley, Division 2 councillor Terry Landsberg, mayor Rosanna Natoli and Aunty Helena Gulash.
Cr Natoli said the opening was the culmination of years of strategic planning, community consultation and a shared vision for the future of Caloundra.
“This completes the transformation of the former Caloundra Administration Building into a vibrant, inclusive and future-focused space, one that responds to the needs of a growing population and evolving community expectations,” she said.
“This modern, purpose-built facility is designed to be more than just a library – it’s a dynamic hub with something for everyone: creative spaces and digital studios, places for kids to learn and play, venue spaces and so many more ways for our community to collaborate and connect.
“Libraries support education, wellbeing and new opportunities for everyone, all while bringing us together and adapting to the needs of all.
“That’s what this building represents for our community. It’s a library, plus so much more.”
The multi-level Library+ Caloundra is one of eight library branches provided by Sunshine Coast Council, along with two mobile libraries, a heritage library and eLibrary.
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Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg said the opening marked a new chapter for Caloundra, with the library serving as a vital part of the Caloundra community and creative hub.
“This facility reflects our community’s creativity, our commitment to sustainability and our belief in the power of shared spaces,” he said.
“This is a library first and books remain at the heart of the experience, but that’s just the beginning.
“I invite everyone in our community to come and see how you might use and enjoy this new space. While you’re here, there’s so much more to enjoy in the Caloundra CBD, from our beautiful beaches to boutique shops and a smorgasbord of eateries.”
The library collections are spread across two levels, from fiction and children’s books to non-fiction and local history.
The kids’ zone boasts an activity wall, vibrant play spaces and snug reading cubbies.
Cr Landsberg said a bumper program in the coming weeks would help locals become familiar with the space and services.
“Guided tours, creative sessions and hands-on activities will showcase everything this next-generation library has to offer,” he said.
The facility will set a new benchmark for sustainability as it targets a 6 Star Green Star rating.
Energy-efficient systems, solar panels and water-saving features are integrated into the building, along with battery storage capable of supporting the building’s energy needs and feeding excess power back into the grid.
During construction, more than 90 per cent of demolition materials were recycled or repurposed, and even previously used furniture was diverted from landfill and given a second life through reuse platforms.
