Major parties commit to Zillmere Library upgrade

Another Brisbane North library is tipped to receive an upgrade, with both major parties committing funds to a refurbishment if they win the March 28 Council election.

The new Chermside Library opened in 2017. Picture: Richard Walker

ANOTHER Brisbane North library is tipped to receive an upgrade, with both major parties committing funds to a refurbishment if they win the March 28 Brisbane Council election.

Labor will spend $1 million to renovate Zillmere Library under Lord Mayoral Candidate Pat Condren’s Back to the Suburbs initiative, while a re-elected Team Shrinner has committed $1.4 million.

Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy (Deagon) said the library had been neglected “while the LNP spends hundreds of millions of ratepayers’ dollars on overblown inner-city projects”.

Colourful foldaway doors separate meeting rooms in the new Bracken Ridge Library which opened late last year. Picture: Michelle Smith

“Libraries are the backbone of a community – they’re dynamic spaces where residents meet for author talks, debates, art workshops, computer lessons and of course to find a fantastic new read,” Cr Cassidy said.

Bracken Ridge candidate Cath Palmer said a Labor council was committed to delivering services that foster engagement and wellbeing in Brisbane suburbs.

“Our team understands the importance of libraries for the young, elderly, families and students – they are the heart of a community,” Ms Palmer said.

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The refurbishment would include new internal fit outs, technology and children’s area, increased workspaces for visitors, and seating and shade outside.

Cr Sandy Landers (Bracken Ridge) said the full refurbishment committed by the LNP “will ensure our libraries are even better places for residents to connect and enjoy a greater range of library activities and events”.

 “Libraries play a big part in the lives of so many people and they have evolved into community hubs that provide books, computers, play areas, Wi-Fi and community rooms for all residents to enjoy.

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“Following the success of Team Schrinner’s investment in delivering a brand new library at Bracken Ridge and Chermside as well as refurbishing the Sandgate Library, I felt it was important that Zillmere benefited from an investment as well.

“That is why I partnered with the Lord Mayor’s representative for Deagon Ward, Kimberley Washington in lobbying for this funding.

“I know many local residents have taken advantage of the new libraries around Zillmere, but with more modern facilities in a refurbished library I think people will choose to visit their local library more often.”