State-of-the-art library a boon for bookworms

There were smiles all round on Monday morning when the new state-of-the-art Kwinana Public Library opened its doors for the first time.

In the new $22 million Darius Wells Library and Resource Centre, the library boasts a comprehensive selection of fiction, non-fiction and resource books, as well as a bright and spacious children’s area.

City librarian Brett Hatwell said the facility also offered a selection of CDs and DVDs, a resource section, including information on local history, dedicated quiet study areas and much more.

“The different sections are colour-coded to help members of the public find things easier,” he said.

“There is also a reservations area where people can come to collect a book they have ordered and use a self-service machine to check their books out.”

The library, which will be manned by a team of 14 staff, also houses an environmentally controlled archive where documents and delicate books can be kept safe.

Parmelia mother Lauren Kay said she had been looking forward to visiting the new library with her two young daughters Ella, 2, and Zara, 3.

“I just love it — that’s why we have come to visit as soon as it opened,” she said.

“I heard they will be holding regular story time sessions on a Saturday, which is great — the kids are loving it.”

Kwinana Mayor Carol Adams said construction had taken longer than expected, but city residents could now enjoy one of Perth’s most modern public libraries.