Mary Davies Library and Community Centre Turns 10

Since opening its doors in August 2014 the Mary Davies Library and Community Centre has become much more than a place to borrow books. It has evolved into a vibrant hub where people of all ages come together to learn and connect.

So far the library has had well over two million visits, and has hosted thousands of programs for adults and children. The Community Centre has been used by many hundreds of thousands of people, serving as a meeting place for local groups and non-profits, fostering a sense of belonging and enriching the social and cultural fabric of the community.

The 10-year milestone celebrates the Centre’s impact on local residents and its role as a cornerstone of the community.

Mayor Deb Hamblin, whose professional career spanned 40 years as a librarian, said she was delighted by the sustained positive impact the facility has had, and continues to have, on the local community.

“The Mary Davies Library and Community Centre is a wonderful asset that has been a hub of knowledge and connection for our community over the past decade. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and the benefits it provides are immeasurable,” she said

“From the very beginning, our goal was to create a space that nurtures growth and fosters community spirit. We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone and look forward to many more years of service”.

The facility is named after Honorary Freeman of the City of Rockingham the late Mary Davies.  “Mary was well known as a ‘walking library’ because her knowledge about the people, places and events that shaped the City of Rockingham was so comprehensive and reliable,” Mayor Hamblin said. 

The birthday celebration included a range of fun activities for community members, and was attended by Mary Davies’ sons John and Robert and her granddaughter Elizabeth.

Photo: Deputy Mayor Lorna Buchan with local Elder Mick Indich, Mary Davies’ son John, daughter-in law Betty, granddaughter Elizabeth, Manager Library Services Alison Oliver, and library staff.