The redeveloped Dimboola Library was officially opened on Wednesday afternoon.

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria, Danielle Green MP, and Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Ron Ismay, both pictured above, officially opened the $1.2 million upgrade.

The project has seen the building of a new library behind the Old Shire Hall, the former library building, and a walkway linking the two. The Old Shire Hall has been renovated inside with the facility intended to be available as a meeting and exhibition space.

In opening the building, Ms Green acknowledged the important role that libraries - places for “so much more than books” - play in communities across the state.

The Dimboola Library and Council Customer Service Centre provides books as well as having a number of computer workstations for community use. A ‘kids corner’ provides a dedicated area for children to read and play.

“The new Dimboola Library has something for everyone, and it’s sure to be popular with young families,” Ms Green said.


Above: Five-year-old Toby King helping Ms Green find Wally while Cr Ron Ismay looks on.

Ms Green also noted the picturesque setting of the new library with the landscaped area behind the building flowing into the Common.

“If you haven’t stood up here on the deck and looked out towards the river, I really encourage you to.”

The landscaped area between the library and Common will become the Dimboola node on the Wimmera River Discovery Trail.

The 2016 round of the state government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program contributed $600,000 towards the development works, with Hindmarsh Shire Council contributing $622,000.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor Ron Ismay said that he was proud to be involved with the opening this facility.

Cr Ismay also acknowledged the role that Council’s former Project Manager, Michael Kolapo, played in the early concept and delivery of the project.

Minister for Local Government, Shaun Leane, was an apology for the opening, but acknowledged in a statement the contribution of libraries during the pandemic, with the adaption to offer click-and-collect and virtual storytimes.

“During the pandemic libraries have made an enormous contribution to communities and the Hindmarsh Shire is no exception.”

Statewide, through their 2020 Budget the government has contributed a record $56.9 million for libraries, including $11.1 million through the Living Libraries program.