The New Library

The proposal for the New Broken Hill Library focuses on the idea of connecting and learning. The new library is designed as a civic, communal and social hub for the local community. Located within the rich landscape of Broken Hill and situated within the centre of the site, the library is accessible, either by foot or vehicle, from the north-west, south-east and south-west.

The structure comprises of a series of stacked circular forms which have been divided between public and private. The forms are influenced by traditional indigenous art and symbolism. The symbol of a meeting place has been reimagined as an organic form and spiral circulation path that travels through the building, inviting the user on a journey as they ascend higher into the library. The idea of the library as a physical meeting place is intrinsic to its function as a place to ‘connect and learn’. Connection is further represented through location and structure. The new form connects to the old Charles Rasp Library which houses the library archives and services, whilst the main circular form encircles an existing tree, creating a physical and visible connection to nature that can be seen throughout the library.