The historic Gilgandra Library has entered a new chapter with the official opening of the Gilgandra Library Hub in the heart of town.

Originally housed in the Gilgandra War Memorial Literary Institute since 1923, the library has now relocated to a purpose-built, modern facility on Miller Street in a $6.41 million project that combines heritage with a vision for the future.

The official opening was attended by a wide cross-section of dignitaries and community members.

Among those welcomed were Senator Deborah O’Neill, Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey, Library Council Member Jane Garling and Cameron Morley from the State Library of NSW, David Prout and his family in honour of the late Glenys Prout, principal architect Ashley Dunn of Dunn & Hillam, and John Melville, CEO of North Constructions.

They were joined by councillors, library staff and volunteers, library members, local businesses and residents who came together to celebrate the milestone.

Gilgandra Shire Mayor, Doug Batten told the large crowd gathered at the opening that the hub “has been a flagship project for Gilgandra, delivering on Council's core commitment to advance the Gilgandra Activation blueprint.”

He said the idea came about after the closure of the Target store in 2019, which left a void in the main street.

 “For our community, already in the midst of attacking drought, news of the closure brought uncertainty and anxiety about its impact on our rural residence and our overall economic vitality,” he said.

“Council saw the opportunity to purchase the building as a way to revitalise the CBD and assist local businesses through these critical drought-impacted times.”

Mayor Doug Batten with Jane Garling, Senator Deborah O'Neill and Cameron Morley.

From temporary pop-ups in the “What Was Target Collective” to construction commencing in March 2022, the journey has been long and not without obstacles.

“Throughout the construction period, unforeseen external factors, including COVID and the supply of labour materials, contributed to some lengthy delays,” Cr Batten said.

“Some six years following its purchase, I am extremely proud to say that Council has delivered a space of connection, play, and learning.”

The Hub now houses over 20,000 books, a business incubator, multipurpose and bookable rooms, tech and sound spaces, and a modernised plaza.

Since reopening in March 2025, it has attracted 225 new members, hosted 124 activities, and recorded more than 200 bookings of its new facilities.

Also in attendance, Senator Deborah O’Neill reflected on her own formative experiences in libraries.

“The only time in my life I had quietness was when I went to the library,” she said.

“It was all about the books and about the material, but what we see here is everything old has to be renewed.”

She praised Gilgandra’s determination to keep its historic Art Deco building alive.

“The passion of your community, your determination not to lose these beautiful buildings, and your perseverance through COVID is to be celebrated," she said.

"Today is a day to celebrate every single one of you who have been part of that process.”

Librarian Liz McCutcheon talks about the legacy of her predecessor Glenys Prout.

Jane Garling, representing the State Library of NSW, who contributed more than half a million dollars to the project, congratulated council and staff for their persistence.

“This beautiful space now takes its place with pride amongst the 361 libraries around the state,” she said.

Carmen Anderson, Warren Shire Library with architect Lee Hillam.

For David Neeve, Gilgandra Shire Council’s General Manager, it was also the time to acknowledge librarian Liz McCutcheon, who has led services since 2007.

 “Liz has an extraordinary passion for library services, which shines through in the programs delivered here,” he said.

“She was a quiet achiever in this project, building key relationships with funding bodies.

"It is a very special thank you and congratulations for all your efforts.”

Robyn Howard and Margot Piggott at the opening event.

Liz McCutcheon herself spoke movingly about Glenys Prout, Gilgandra’s former librarian from 1980 until her passing in 2007.

The new multipurpose room has been named in her honour.

“Glenys introduced our first story time program and toy collection, inspiring generations of children,” Ms McCutcheon said.

“She guided us through the transition from card catalogues to a computerised system, and she began planning for a new library as early as 2006.

"The building we are opening today fulfils the vision she set in motion.”

She said naming the new multipurpose space the Glenys Prout Room was a fitting tribute.

“Already it has hosted over 120 events, truly reflecting what Glenys believed in - the power of community, learning, and connection,” Ms McCutcheon said.