Historical information

Library Development
The library building has been designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally-made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later.
Internally there are a number of features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork; a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria.
The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks.
The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists will be added externally and internally to the building.
The library floor area is approximately 1200 sq metres and houses a collection of 50,000 items.
The community multi-purpose room, foyer and community display area totals approximately 300 sq metres. These areas will be available to the community for such events a~ meetings, displays, classes, functions and art exhibitions. The Toy Library and Adult Literacy Group will also be based in the new complex.
The value of works/services and fittings/ furniture is $3,040,000

Project Team
Project Director: John Stamp, Director - Major Projects
Project Manager: Noel Mcinnes, Noel Mcinnes Project Management Pty Ltd
Architects: Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan, Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd
Site Foreman - Building Works: John Mantel
Site Foreman - Site Works and Foundations: Steven White, Shire of Eltham
Surveyor: Gregory Slater, Shire of Eltham
Builder: Shire of Eltham

Significance

Shows the relationship of the the Shire of Eltham office which was built on the original location of Shillinglaw Cottage and relocated to Panther Place.The Shillinglaw trees visible, still in their original location, in front of the Shire offices.
Photo album of the new Eltham Library presented to the Society by Cr R.J. Manuell, Chairperson Eltham Library Redevelopment Special Committee, 28 Nov 1994 in recognition of the efforts and contribution made by the Shire of Eltham Historical Society to the construction of the Eltham Library complex.

Physical description

Black faux leather album cover, black pages, brass corners and screws, 10 page inserts separated by tissue, 12 photos and information sheets stuck to pages.