An outdoor community lounge at Keilor library is one step closer with the final plans being approved.
The lounge, which will be built on vacant parkland adjacent to the library, will increase the space of the library by one-third.
The lounge will be used by visitors for study, relaxation, reading and holding outdoor events.
After community consultation, several changes have been made to the plans.
The changes include increased shade areas, ramps and surfaces to improve accessibility, finished surfaces, storage for outdoor furniture and an increase in the number of study tables.
At this stage there are no plans to extend operating hours with the introduction of the new area.
Construction is set to get underway early next year.
Brimbank council has contributed $100,000 to the library upgrades, with the council also receiving state government funding through the Living Libraries Infrastructure program.
The council first proposed the lounge in 2014, but it has twice been delayed due to budget constraints.
There has been some community concern about the space.
Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said they had listened to the community.
“The new outdoor lounge will enhance the current library offering to the community, delivering on outcomes that will benefit all of Brimbank,” she said.
“It will provide flexible learning, recreation and play spaces that support a range of activities and multiple seating, study, creative play, recreation and reading areas.”
Tara Murray
