Albany Public Library celebrates 50th anniversary
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24 August 2018
Albany Public Library will host a free party for the public to celebrate 50 years since opening its doors next Thursday, August 30, at 10:30am.
Established as a ‘free library’ service in 1968, the Library grew quickly and by the 1970s boasted 20,000 titles and a membership of 10,000 people.
In the 1980s the Local History Collection was created and the project to index local newspapers began. Another milestone was the opening of the Wellstead Branch Library to provide a service to residents who could not always make the trip to Albany.
In 2001, $1.32m in funding was secured for extensive renovations, which included a partnership with the University of Western Australia by creating a shared space for UWA and the Local History Collection.
Embracing the rise in digital technology and popularity of the internet, Albany Public Library has helped build eLiteracy in the Albany community, as well as offering electronic resources such as eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines, and an online video streaming platform.
Over the last 18 months the library building has transformed with the addition of a new Visitors Centre. Funding from the Great Southern Development Commission has also changed the library into a more functional and flexible space with a new layout, furniture and technology.
Albany Public Library continues to provide a welcoming and safe haven for a dynamic community and invites the community to come along and join in the celebrations.