Library+ Caloundra

Formerly one of the oldest and busiest libraries in the Sunshine Coast network, the Caloundra Library has recently been relocated into a brand-new cutting-edge facility, encompassing three levels of district library, customer service centre and community venue and meeting spaces.

With design lead by Wilson Architects, this building will meet the growing demand for a modern learning experience through extended operating hours, programs and services.

The facility houses approximately 130 council staff members and is expected to deliver significant social and economic benefits, as well as support education opportunities, creative development and community engagement.

The council placed a high priority on all furniture being Australian made and engaged Schiavello's Indigenous partner Bunin through a competitive tender process to procure a portion of workplace furniture. Bunin is led by Alec Brown, Director of Operations and a proud Gubbi Gubbi man, which is also the land that the city of Caloundra lives on. In supporting Bunin, Caloundra is also supporting the Federal Government’s initiative, with the ultimate aim of improving outcomes for our Indigenous community.   

Offering a typical Queensland indoor/outdoor experience with spaces for all ages and users, the building draws visitors off the street and from Bill Venardos Park into an outdoor, covered extension to the building. As you step into the foyer, a two-storey void opens up connecting the first two levels of the building.

This open foyer and event space with tiered seating welcomes visitors on the ground floor, situated alongside junior, young adult and magazine library areas and quiet reading spaces. This floor is also home to a customer service centre that provides information and support to the community.

The primary library services are located on level 1, accompanied by local history, genealogy and maker-space areas, digital studios and a display area. Level 2 contains the council administration offices and large flexible community meeting and venue spaces.

With sustainability as its core, the project incorporates features designed to reduce environmental impact and embrace the Sunshine Coast climate using energy-efficient systems and lifecycle thinking.  

Embracing both indoor and outdoor experiences for all ages, the timeless design pays homage to the building’s butterfly roofline and soaring ceilings through its calming palette and inviting atmosphere.

Prioritising comfort and spatial planning, designer Sarah Hewlett from Wilson Architects explored a myriad of seating arrangements before settling on Schiavello’s Valli Cove single seaters, as well as the versatile Elfin Sofa. A mix of one, two and three seater Elfin Sofas were commissioned for the space, delivering spots for visitors to comfortably sit and read solo or in small groups.

To optimise learning and development, the Diffrient World task chairs were chosen for their minimal look and custom back and lumbar support design.

This new state-of-the-art space, located in the heart of Caloundra’s Community + Creative Hub offers locals an inclusive and resourceful environment that will support the growth and development of the community for years to come.