Heidelberg West Library opens Tuesday 20 October
Published on 16 October 2026
After a 12-month transformation inside Olympic Leisure Centre, the brand-new Heidelberg West Library will open its doors to the community on Tuesday 20 October.
Co-located within the leisure centre, the library has been designed with community input to support literacy, learning and social connection, making it easier for locals to access library services close to home.
Whether you’re looking to study after school, bring your toddler to Storytime, access the internet on the computers or pop in after a gym session to borrow a book, there’s something for everyone at Heidelberg West Library.
Inside the library, which is operated by Yarra Plenty Regional Library, you’ll find:
- a dedicated children’s area
- library collections for all ages
- public computers and technology access
- reading and study spaces
- community programs and activities
- informal gathering spaces for residents.
The library opens to the public on Tuesday 20 October, with a special Storytime at 11am.
“Libraries are among the most welcoming and inclusive spaces in our community, providing opportunities for people of all ages to learn, connect and access important services,” Mayor Cr Alison Champion said.
“We know the community values places where people can come together, and Heidelberg West Library has been designed with local input to create a space that reflects the needs of the neighbourhood.
“I’m excited to see residents begin using the new library and enjoying everything it has to offer.”
Cr Mary O’Kane reflected on the significance of a permanent library and the changes that have occurred at Olympic Leisure Centre over the last 12 months.
“The closure of the OLC pool has been hard for many in our community. But we must keep moving forward. And the new library gives Heidelberg West its first free indoor place where people can come all year round.
“Over 1000 pieces of local feedback have helped design the library as a welcoming space for everyone, and the offerings will continuously evolve through feedback from those who use it.
“While the beloved mobile library bus will be missed, I look forward to seeing the permanent library embraced by the community, whether attending a children’s program, studying, borrowing books or using the computers.”
“We’re delighted to welcome the community into Heidelberg West Library and to begin delivering programs, services and resources from this wonderful new space,” Yarra Plenty Regional Library CEO Nicole Rudden said.
“Libraries play an important role in helping people connect, learn and thrive, and Heidelberg West Library has been designed to support those everyday experiences for locals.
“We look forward to meeting new members, welcoming familiar faces and working with the community to make the library a vibrant and valued local destination.”
Locals are encouraged to visit the new library, explore the space and become a member for free to access borrowing, digital resources and a wide range of programs and services.
About the library
Heidelberg West Library is operated by Yarra Plenty Regional Library and is located within Olympic Leisure Centre.
The new library is part of the $2 million Olympic Leisure Centre redevelopment, with $1.8 million funded by Council and an additional $200,000 received through the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
Residents can join the library for free to access books, digital resources, technology, programs and services across the Yarra Plenty Regional Library network.