Plans for a $2m library in Naracoorte have been revealed after council ditches old site

A flash new library designed to be like a ‘public living room’ is set to spruce up the main street of a Limestone Coast town. See the designs.

Naracoorte Lucindale Council has unveiled the designs for its multimillion-dollar library redevelopment.

Construction is expected to begin at the new Smith St site in June after the town’s original Ormerod St facility was declared to be in a state of disrepair, and in need of significant maintenance and renovation funds.

Artist impression of the new Library Redevelopment Project at 93 Smith St, Naracoorte. Picture: Naracoorte Lucindale Council / Brett Julian Architect

The development is set to reinvigorate public space. Picture: Naracoorte Lucindale Council / Brett Julian Architect

Instead, the new Brett Julian Architect design will unify a modern and redeveloped library space and the town’s existing historical Town Hall with a gallery connection linking the two buildings.

Based on the concept of a ‘public living room’ the floor plan features flexible community spaces including a dedicated children’s and parent’s area while new streetscaping will enhance the urban zone.

The $2m library is based on the concept of a ‘public living room’. Sounds comfy. Picture: Naracoorte Lucindale Council / Brett, Julian Architect

After years of discussion, Mayor Erika Vickery said council’s acquisition of the old Naracoorte Herald building gave the project the direction it needed and was a more cost effective option.

“Many discussions were had over time around possible locations and the potential for a greenfield site,” Mayor Vickery said.

“Purchasing the old Herald building was an option that came along at the right time and the project has flourished since that decision was made.

“Council are pleased to be able to restore a vacant building in the main street and really start to activate this part of the town precinct by bringing together the Town Hall and Library into the one complex.”

The former Naracoorte Herald building is set for a makeover. Picture: Naracoorte Lucindale Council / Brett, Julian Architect

Artist impression of the new Library Redevelopment Project at 93, Smith Street, Naracoorte. Picture: Naracoorte Lucindale Council / Brett, Julian Architect

Mayor Vickery said she believed the new designs hits the mark and meets the needs of a growing and diverse community.

Fully funded by the council, $2m was earmarked for the project in the 2020-2021 Budget with the final cost to be determined once the construction contract is awarded.

Council confirmed it would not affect rates or reduce parking with the facility expected to support the attraction of new events and conferences to the area.