The civic heart of Docklands

By David Amaya

Over the last three years Library at The Dock has been a hub of culture, art and education for Melbourne residents and visitors.

Its location, in the heart of the Docklands harbour, allows people to enjoy a beautiful landscape while accessing its services.

Since it’s opening in May 2014, the library has received 641,211 visitors and an average of 16,441 visits per month. It makes it one of the most popular Docklands attractions.

It also offers a variety of items that people can borrow. Some 476,270 items have so far been loaned – around 13,230 per month.

The library offers activities for all the family. Since opening, the adults have participated in weekly, monthly and yearly programs such as ESL conversation club, Society of Women Writers, Fashion and Film Afternoon Delight and Chinese Book Club, with a high number of attendees.

As well, there have been plenty of activities for children, such as Songbirds, Stompers, Story Time and Creative Kids Club where they can explore their creativity and have a good time.

There has also been a place for technological development. Some 411 technology workshops have been held with 3599 people of all ages participating in the programs. Every week visitors can enjoy a new workshop to learn about robotic, 3D printing and apps, among others.

But art and culture have always been on the library’s agenda. The heritage gallery has featured 23 exhibitions with a focus on local heritage and telling community stories. All of them have been organised with community groups that have found a place to display their art.

According to Cr Jackie Watts, Library at The Dock has established itself as the civil heart and soul of Docklands.

“Library at the Dock clearly demonstrates that libraries are no longer merely places to quietly borrow books. They also perform a much more complex and necessary role today as readily accessible hubs for lifelong learning where the community can interact, share thoughts and ideas, explore news interests and develop new skills,” she said.