City of Perth Library

I haven’t been to the library since 2013, when my studies acme to an end. When I saw that their new library was open, I couldn’t resist the urge to check it out.
The building itself is truly stunning. It’s circular, with wood panelling everywhere, and muted carpeting. The library is split across multiple levels. The circulation desk is on the ground floor, with a mezzanine above. Level 1 is adult fiction, Level 2 is for adult non-​fiction. DVD’s and Blu-ray’s are on Level 3, with a dedicated kid’s library on 4. The top floor contains the local history library and a space for young adults.
My one issue is the incredibly slow speed of the lifts, so I just ended up walking everywhere. By the end, my legs were burning. THe spiral staircase that wraps around the core of the building gets narrower the higher you go, so I was feeling a little claustrophobic by the time I got to the top.
Overall, I am very impressed with what I saw. We need more buildings like this.

Kerry Hills Architects should be applauded on designing the City of Perth’s brand new library. The building is visually impressive and architecturally sound. A beautiful edifice which threw its doors open to the public on 1 March 2016. People came in droves to admire and gawk and they were not disappointed.
The library is aesthetically pleasing with many delightful features that will please both young and old. It appears no expense has been spared as a fine, green granite has been used on the outside and the inside of the building. As well, five different types of wood have been utilized. It overlooks the reflection pool and the living green wall. I was intrigued by the wall as the botanist has used 41 different species and 3450 different plants to create it. As it is a hydroponic wall, no soil or particles that age or move were required. It is ecologically sound and brings a real energy to the area. The Weeping Fig tree on Level 4 was lifted into position by a crane and will prove to be popular with the young ones. The ceiling is adorned with a stunning piece of artwork by artist Andrew Nicholls and gives you an excellent reason to look up. The high vaulted ceiling and the design of the building results in a space that is open and filled with light.
There are seven different levels in total and one can certainly get some exercise climbing to the top. Should you wish there is a lift available. The view is worth it and you can always sit in the sun and read to your heart’s content. It is very spacious with lots of seating scattered throughout. The facilities are excellent as there is an auditorium, print room and toilets on every level. You can use the self service facility to check out your books and DVDs on most floors.
As it has just opened, the signage for different genres of fiction is not yet in place but I am confident this will be rectified in time. Also I have noted there is an absence of new books and I sincerely hope the budget will stretch to allow for this. At the end of the day, a library is basically a home for books and I, for one, prefer less frills and more books!