Liverpool’s new state-of-the-art library sparks activation of Sydney’s third CBD

Liverpool City Council, working with Built, have officially opened Yellamundie – The Story Teller, south-west Sydney’s newest city library and community hub and the centrepiece of the $600m Liverpool Civic Place.

With the new Council offices and Council Chambers set to open in the new year, the opening of Yellamundie sparks the first stage of a wider precinct activation of Liverpool CBD’s southern end into a vibrant, 18-hour city.

The award-winning, fjcstudio designed 5,000sqm building features state-of-the-art children’s education facilities, public gallery spaces, and includes over two kilometres of shelving and over 85,000 items, making it one of the state’s largest libraries.
With a focus on world-class sustainable design, the building sets a benchmark for south-west Sydney, with the library achieving a 6 Star Green Star Design Review rating.

Liverpool Mayor, Ned Mannoun said the opening of Yellamundie marked a momentous occasion in Liverpool’s history.

“This city was founded in 1810 and here we now have one of the most advanced and architecturally beautiful buildings in all of Sydney; for the people of Liverpool and the people of south-west Sydney,” said Mayor Mannoun.

“When we talk about this space, this building is not just going to be about books. With access to free robotics classes to video and digital production, we are preparing our community to have the skills for the future and ensuring it is accessible to everybody,” added the Mayor.

Jono Cottee, Development Director for Built, the precinct’s development and construction partner, said Liverpool Civic Place is the culmination of years of hard work, with its inception going back to 2016 when both partners saw the huge potential Liverpool held for Western Sydney and Sydney at large.

“Liverpool Civic Place is a great example of the private sector partnering with government to unlock opportunities that benefit the community and attract more investment into the region,” said Jono Cottee, Development Director, Built.

“With its proximity to public transport, coupled with the world-class facilities, Liverpool Civic Place represents revitalisation and precinct activation at scale and will ensure south-west Sydney is well-positioned for the region’s ongoing investment and expansion,” he added.

Yellamundie Civic Place Library and Art Gallery is now open to the public, with three exhibitions – including Howard Arkley: At Home – currently on display in the Art Gallery Exhibition Space.

The Create Space supports STEM and Robotics education, offering classes for kids of all ages and adults too. It also supports content creators with video and podcasting equipment as well as a range of creative programs.