In the heart of Geelong, Victoria, stands a beacon of knowledge and history, the Geelong Heritage Centre. This remarkable institution is not just a library; it is a treasure trove of regional history and a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its past while embracing the future. The Geelong Heritage Centre is a place where history enthusiasts, researchers, and casual visitors alike can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Geelong's heritage.
The origins of the Geelong Library date back to 1858 when it was established as part of the Mechanics Institute. Over the years, the library grew in size and significance. In 1876, it relocated to a grand neoclassical building on Moorabool Street, a move that marked the beginning of its journey as a prominent cultural institution. The library continued to evolve, and in 1962, it found a new home in Johnstone Park, in a building designed by the renowned architectural firm Buchan, Laird & Buchan.
The Geelong Historical Records Centre, now known as the Geelong Heritage Centre, was established in 1979. This initiative was driven by the Geelong Historical Society, which had been tirelessly working to preserve the region's history since its formal establishment in 1944. The society's efforts culminated in the creation of a dedicated depository for significant historical records and archives from the district. The Geelong Heritage Centre quickly became an essential repository for local government records and other historical documents, making it the largest regional archive in Victoria.
The Geelong Heritage Centre's current home is a stunning architectural marvel that seamlessly blends modern design with historical significance. Designed by the Melbourne architectural firm ARM Architecture, the building features a unique geodesic dome constructed of glass and reinforced concrete. This distinctive design not only adds to the city's architectural landscape but also pays homage to the domes of great libraries around the world, such as the Library of Congress and the State Library of Victoria's domed reading room.
The fractured dome design comprises over 400 prefabricated glass-reinforced concrete tiles, creating a visually striking structure. The building's exterior harmonizes with its surrounding masonry neighbors, which include the classical Geelong Art Gallery, the old Geelong Town Hall, the Art Deco courthouse, and the brutalist State Government Offices. The new building, which opened its doors on November 21, 2015, covers over 6,000 square meters and includes a children's exploration and discovery zone, a youth area, and a heritage centre repository that houses 120,000 print and multimedia collection items.
The Geelong Heritage Centre is home to over one million items, making it a treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of Geelong and the surrounding region. The centre's vast collection includes a large lending and reference collection, as well as specialist scientific collections such as the John Raddenberry Fern and Lycopod collection. One of the highlights of the centre is the Vault Kim barne thaliyu on level 3, a dedicated space that houses specialist resources for the local history of Geelong and its environs.
The Geelong Historical Society has played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of the Geelong Heritage Centre. Founded in 1944, the society has been instrumental in preserving and documenting the history of Geelong. The society's collection, which includes council minute books, financial accounts, and other historical documents dating back to the early 1920s, forms the nucleus of the Geelong Heritage Centre's holdings.
Over the years, the society has organized numerous presentations, excursions, and commemorative events, including the 150th anniversary of Matthew Flinders' exploration of the district and the climbing of Station Peak. The society's efforts have also contributed to the preservation of Geelong's historic monuments, such as the Barwon Sewer Aqueduct. The society's quarterly magazine, Investigator, is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Geelong and is published in March, June, September, and December each year.
Since its opening, the Geelong Heritage Centre has become a hub of activity and a focal point for the community. The opening exhibition in the gallery space attracted 21,000 visitors in the first week alone, with an average of 10,000 visitors per week subsequently. The centre's unique architecture and its role in revitalizing Geelong have been widely recognized, earning it the 2015 State Award for Excellence by the Concrete Institute of Australia. The designing architectural firm, ARM Architecture, has also received numerous accolades for their work on the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, including the Victorian Architecture Medal, the William Wardell Award for Public Architecture, the Marion Mahoney Award, the Regional Prize, and the national Sir Zelman Cowen Award for Public Architecture in 2016.
In conclusion, the Geelong Heritage Centre is more than just a library or an archive; it is a living testament to the rich history and vibrant culture of Geelong. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a researcher, or simply a curious visitor, the centre offers a wealth of knowledge and a unique glimpse into the past. Its stunning architecture, extensive collections, and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful city of Geelong.
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