The way we use libraries has changed a lot in the past 70 years with the pace of change accelerating even more over the 25 years of this century (and, yes, that means we’re already a quarter of the way into the 21st century!).

Once upon a time, libraries were hushed places filled with row upon row of books, and librarians who checked your reading matter in and out, and could recite the complete Dewey System for organising their bookshelves.

Today, librarians are more like information guides navigating us through the vast array of traditional forms of literary access, and through digital technology that embraces apps, cloud services, 24/7 digital access, e-books, audiobooks and extensive online resources.

To keep abreast of these changes, the new Gosford Regional Library has been designed over four levels that offer free physical and digital access to books and information, as well as providing a gathering place for the community – young and old. There’ll be workshops on research techniques and tracing your ancestry, book readings, cultural activities, digital literacy classes, and spaces to let you experiment with new and old technologies.

Library users will now have greater access to fascinating local history resources housed in a ground floor Heritage Centre that lets you delve into the written, oral and photographic history of the Central Coast back to its early inhabitants.

Also on the ground floor, is a beautiful and engaging Children’s Area where families can encourage young ones to develop a love of reading and a lifelong curiosity for learning through play, fun and interactive activities.

The Library is set to further draw locals and visitors into the city centre by giving commuters a space to work closer to home, and providing access to Council’s customer service points where you can pay rates, register your beloved family pets, etc. Meeting rooms will accommodate community events and activities and can also host Council meetings.

In recognition of our diverse community, the Regional Library will be fully accessible, provide adjustable desk heights, a hearing loop system, open plan areas and quiet zones.

It’s been designated a Regional Library because of its size and facilities. With 38,000 physical titles, a large digital collection and extensive services, it’s destined to become a vital hub within Gosford as the library continues to adapt to changing technologies well into the future.