New library to open this month

New library to open this month

Docklands’ first major community facility, the Library at the Dock, will open its doors to the public this month.

The long-awaited “next generation” library will officially open on Saturday, May 31 with a host of events planned to celebrate the launch.

The main event of the library launch will be the inaugural Melbourne UNESCO City of Literature Oration, which will be presented by acclaimed Melbourne author Arnold Zable.

The launch will also include activities and programs throughout the day, showcasing the library’s unique facilities including the recording studio, performance space, children’s library and the digital, music and entertainment collections.

The opening will also include tours, maker-space activities such as 3D printing demonstrations, music production workshops, dance performances and technology activities.

Acting Lord Mayor Susan Riley said the opening event was the culmination of three years’ work from a unique tri-partnership between Lend Lease, Places Victoria and the City of Melbourne.
“Library at the Dock is the most modern public library, in the most spectacular setting, in Australia,” Cr Riley said.

“The Library at the Dock will be a place of inspiration for generations to come. For the creative and the literary, for students and for families, this building will provide Docklands with a civic heart.”

“Globally Melbourne is recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature and this exciting new facility will enrich the culture of our city and the community of Docklands.”

And, as if the program of events for the opening day wasn’t enough, tram commuters in Docklands will also be treated to a range of onboard performances in the lead up to the launch event.

The onboard performances are aimed at demonstrating the diverse range of offerings at the new Library at the Dock.

Commuters on-board routes 75, 48, 86 will be entertained by the Phunktional Dance Company, Men in Suits choir and physical theatre ensemble Born in a Taxi.

You can see Phunktional Dance Company onboard route 75 from midday to 1pm until May 9.

The Men in Suits choir will be entertaining commuters on the 48 tram from 2pm to 3pm from May 12 to May 16.

Born in a Taxi will be onboard route 86 from midday to 1pm from May 19 to May 23.

A Flashmob will also take over Southern Cross Station in the lead-up to the opening.

Participants are asked to bring a book they love and will read together to celebrate books and the new library.

To take part in the flashmob meet in front the V-Line ticketing booths at Southern Cross Station at 10.45 am on Tuesday, May 13.

The Library at the Dock will open at 10am on May 31, with the UNESCO City of Literature Oration to commence in the auditorium at midday.

For more details see http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/docklands

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