History

A True Community Library since 1983

On 11th April 1983 a public meeting of enthusiastic locals was held with the aim of establishing a community library in Avalon Beach.

The new steering committee was headed by Chairman Brenda Kable. Professional librarians offered to train and assist volunteers to process and catalogue approximately 3000 books.

Avalon Community Library since 1983

Avalon Community Library since 1983
The library was officially opened on 28th October 1983 with lending commencing on 31st October. There were 50 keen locals volunteering to staff this new library with Helen Clark being appointed as the Library Manager.

The library moved a couple of times. Firstly, from its original site at the Avalon Beach Baby Health Centre to a demountable building and then to the old Woolworths building in Avalon Parade  in 1988.

In 2002 the library moved into purpose built premises upstairs in the new Avalon Recreation Centre, coincidentally returning to the original site of its birthplace.

Today Avalon Community Library is a popular and well-attended addition to the facilities available in Avalon Beach and is still run by many volunteers and one paid Library Coordinator.

It is a true example of “people power” working for the good of the community.

For an article all about The Avalon Story – please click on the button below:
The Avalon Story | Pittwater Online News

For Oral Histories about Avalon Library:
15 oral history interviews

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & HEAR ABOUT OUR EVENTS

Address
The Avalon Recreation Centre
59a Old Barrenjoey Road
Avalon Beach
NSW 2017
02 8495 5080

Click here for our Opening Times