Residents are set to get a sneak preview of the Lambton Library restorations to celebrate the suburb’s 150th anniversary on June 26.
The century-old heritage building was constructed in 1887 and was initially used as the Lambton Council Chamber before being transformed into a library in 1950.
The library has been closed for restorations over the past 18 months but will now temporarily reopen for a public preview on June 21, 26 and 27.
A community-led ‘Love Lambton’ event will also coincide, commemorating June 26, 1871, when Queen Victoria signed the papers to designate Lambton as a municipality.
The event will deliver 150 hours of events, entertainment and community activations from June 21 to 27, helping to bring the suburb’s history to life.
The community will gather in Lambton Park on Sunday, June 27 from 10.30am for the main event, featuring live local talent as well as acclaimed Australian songstress Kate Ceberano.
The Newcastle Libraries Local History team has collaborated with theatre company Curious Legends to help project a series of historical images onto the side of the library.
Some historical images will also be used for an augmented reality experience at three areas around Lambton Park.
Lambton Library will display rare documents, including photos of the first Lambton councillors, maps, plans, and the original minute books of Lambton Council.
A podcast series is also in the works with local historian Julie Keating.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the library had been a much-loved community building and the suburb’s focal point for more than 100 years.
“While the passing of time has taken its toll on the building, City of Newcastle is prioritising essential improvements to deliver an improved space to the community,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Once finished, Lambton Library’s refurbishment will have completely reimagined the internal space to create a user-centric, modern experience that will allow extended community access and new activities in the library.
“While we look forward to permanently welcoming everyone back into the library later in the year, the Love Lambton celebration provides an ideal opportunity to show the results of this transformation so far while also helping to celebrate Lambton’s 150th anniversary.”
The library has so far undergone roof restorations and internal fit-outs, including new equipment and self-service technology.
The bullnose verandah and new entry will be completed next, helping to restore the building’s original façade.
Information source: Media release, Jun 20, City of Newcastle