An event for Geelong Design Week at the new Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library in Greater Geelong will be of value to anyone involved in planning and designing community library facilities.

'Contemporary Library Design - Exploring Biyal-a' offers the chance to tour the best-practice community facility and hear an expert panel discuss how the new build successfully incorporates Indigenous cultural heritage alongside community programming and social activation.

Alexander Borek from global design firm Buchan will be joined on the panel by Corrina Eccles from the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, David McCartney from City of Greater Geelong and Vanessa Schernickau from Geelong Regional Libraries. Marsha Uppill, director and co-founder of Arranyinha, will facilitate.

Alexander Borek says the library was conceived as a nourishing place for the community to come together and create a shared future. The panel will explore how the building's distinctive design captures Wadawurrung cultural elements and stories and is a true day-night meeting place for local residents of all ages.

"The waterways of the Wadawurrung people have been a natural meeting point for centuries, and this evolved into a narrative theme of 'living water'", says Borek.

"Everyone on the project championed this central idea and the result is a culturally rich and flexible community hub."

Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library spans 2,500 square metres and the design accommodates after-hours access, recognising that traditional hours don’t suit everyone.

"Biyal-a is a truly modern library – with fully equipped creative spaces, spaces to study, work and read,” says Vanessa Schernickau, CEO of Geelong Regional Libraries and panellist.

“There are 30,000 brand new books and resources to borrow, and a jam-packed schedule of events and programs to support early literacy, lifelong learning and community connection."

The event will take place at the library on Tuesday 26 November from 4 pm - 5.30 pm.  Registration is free and can be done here.

Image: Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library by Tom Roe.