A Sunshine Coast library is a contender for the prestigious Public Library of the Year Award.
Library+ Caloundra is one of just four libraries worldwide shortlisted for the award, which recognises innovation, community impact and the future of public library services.
The facility was created through the transformation of the former Caloundra Administration Building into a community hub combining learning, creativity, technology and sustainability.
The international recognition follows a string of accolades including: a regional growth category win at the 2026 National Awards for Local Government; a highly commended at the 2026 Australian Library and Information Association Library Design Awards; and a 6-star Green Star rating.
Library+ Caloundra has also become a destination for arts, culture and creativity with makerspace facilities, digital media studios, exhibitions, workshops, artist talks and creative residencies.
It hosted Radical Hope Machine 2 during Horizon Festival 2026, bringing artists, writers, technologists and community members together for an immersive project combining storytelling and digital technology.
A community-led project, Flutter, also transformed the library atrium with an interactive artwork by artist Jade Oakley based on contributions from local participants.
The library’s sustainability credentials were another factor in its transformation, with the adaptive reuse of the former administration building reducing construction waste and extending the life of an existing community asset.
Energy-efficient systems, water-saving measures and battery storage have helped deliver a 48 per cent reduction in energy use compared with the original facility.
The library has also seen a sharp increase in use, with monthly visitation up about 65 per cent to around 33,000 visits and membership up 24 per cent.
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the nomination was an acknowledgment of council’s commitment to delivering outstanding community infrastructure.
“This nomination celebrates a library that does more than house books,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Library+ Caloundra is a vibrant community hub where people can connect, learn, create and access essential services.
“The facility was designed to meet the evolving needs of the Sunshine Coast community. We listened to our residents and delivered a space that reflects how people use libraries today.
“Our libraries are inclusive, modern and dynamic spaces that help build strong, connected communities.”
Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg said the facility was making a positive difference in people’s lives.
“Library+ Caloundra is delivering real benefits for our community every day,” Cr Landsberg said.
“It is a place where people can learn new skills, access technology, attend programs and connect with others. We’ve seen families, students, seniors, community groups and creatives embrace the space from day one.
“It is wonderful to see so many people making the space their own, and so many taking this opportunity to discover their local library for the first time.”
