The $23 million development is the first new building to be brought to life at Inveresk through the Northern Transformation Program, funded through the Launceston City Deal, with contributions from the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, City of Launceston and the University of Tasmania.
The University’s transformation towards city-based campuses will enable more people to access learning opportunities throughout all stages of life. The Library will be central to the vitality of Launceston and the wider region, as the vibrant heart of the campus.
The building was designed by John Wardle Architects with input from over 150 individuals including students, staff and the community as part of a co-design process providing feedback on the vision for Inveresk, building design and functionality.
Supplied by Anjie Blair.
The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rufus Black said the design is considerate of its surrounds, as part of a shared precinct.
“As the new heart of the campus, the Inveresk Library is reflective of the history of the place; it embraces and honours the environment around it,” Professor Black said.
Above all else, the Library is there to support the whole community and lifelong learning. We look forward to welcoming and supporting any members of the community from school age onwards who are looking for the resources and opportunities libraries bring.
The 20-month build was led by Vos Construction, with local labour and materials a priority. Over 300 workers have been engaged in the project including contractors, with over 20% training as apprentices.
Set over three levels, the Library offers group and quiet study spaces, digital and print collections and resources, meeting spaces and classrooms, featured artworks and cultural objects including the Riawunna collection, a student kitchenette and parenting room and local café operator Cabin Coffee.
Supplied by Anjie Blair.
Community visitors can sign up as library members and borrow from the print collection, and student advisers from the University and TasTAFE are available on site to help with course enquiries, enrolment and counselling.
Professor Black said the Inveresk Library will support academic, cultural, and social experiences through student and community-led events and workshops, mentoring programs, school groups, artist talks and public forums.
Improving access to exciting learning experiences sits at the heart of our mission. We look forward to a bright future ahead for the region and creating places to share knowledge and ideas together is a key part of that.
Sustainability is a key feature of the design, with recycled gas pipelines used for the building’s foundations, structural use of Tasmanian timber, low carbon concrete and solar initiatives to maximise energy efficiency.
Library services will remain available across Newnham and Inveresk locations to support students during the University’s transition to Inveresk, with the overall campus development which includes a further two buildings scheduled for full completion in 2024.
Learn more and get in touch about the transformation of our northern and north west campuses and southern campus.