In the wake of the 2022 flood that crippled Lismore’s public library, a brand-new Children's Library has opened its doors in Lismore Central, a beautiful and accessible space, especially for the kids.

Since the flood, the library space which has been set up on Molesworth Street has struggled to cater to an extremely broad demographic in a limited space, so the idea was born to create a library, especially for the kids in an alternate location.

The separation of the Children’s collection to the new space also means that the Molesworth Street Library can expand its adult collections.

Michael Lewis, the Librarian for Richmond-Tweed Regional Library, addressed those gathered and declared the library open.

“This space has a lot of meaning for us. It is another step towards providing a better service, and access to resources, collections and activities for our local children.”

Michael thanked the NSW government, LCC and the management of Lismore Central for making the Children’s library a possibility, and the library team for bringing it to life. The initiative to create this haven for young readers came from Lucy Kinsley, now retired Manager of Richmond-Tweed Regional Library, who is delighted to see her vision become a reality.

In conversation with the Lismore App, Michael said, “Today is overwhelming - it’s just one of those times that we have had so much adversity for so long, and then there’s this fun element, it’s really great. I think (that being in the shopping centre) will mean we get new members who have never been into a library, or who don’t have the time to go to the shops and then go to the library.”

Mayor Steve Kreig said “This really is the coolest thing in 18 months that we’ve been able to launch… It’s really, really good to have such a great space in our CBD.”

Janelle Saffin, State Member for Lismore, echoed this sentiment. “What a great thing to have a library in a shopping centre!… and it’s great to have it in the CBD. We need the CBD to be vibrant, with lots of activities for people.”

Danny Davidson, Lismore Central Manager, is very enthusiastic about the new addition to the centre. “It’s a great thing, great that it’s part of the CBD. Having a Kid’s Library in the shopping centre brings everyone together. The worst of the floods has brought out the best of the town.”

The Children’s Library features a colourful and inviting interior, filled with age-appropriate books and cozy reading nooks. Today, Kidsnest was there with an exciting array of sensory play activities for families visiting the library, that both the adults and kids found fascinating.

"It's so nice seeing the kid's faces light up seeing the books and activities in here,” said Laura, a mother who was at the opening. “What a great space for our community after all it’s been through. And it’s so convenient - we can just pop in before we do the groceries! I hate getting kids in and out of the car too much.”

The Children’s Library will open seven days a week and offer a variety of programs and events for children ages 12 and under, such as Baby Time, Story Time, Toddler Time, book club, crafts, and game activities. The library will also offer a selection of resources for parents and caregivers, including books, parenting magazines, and tools such as dyslexia and sensory kits.

The Children’s Library will be open from 9.30 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 1 pm Saturday, and 1 pm to 4 pm Sunday. 

It promises to be a valuable asset to families in the community, not only providing literary resources, but also a wonderful space to gather and connect.