The City of Charles Sturt recently announced that Ngutungka Henley would open its doors in early 2025 after construction started almost a year ago. Now, with the big news out of the bag, it’s almost time to get your head in the books and make your way down to the revamped library.
The brand new hybrid library and community centre will be open from the 8th of February 2025. The epic Saturday will be filled with festivities and community-focused fun. Get on down to Henley from 10am to 4pm to get a first look at the revitalised library and take part in all the celebrations.
The grand opening day will kick off with an official smoking ceremony which cleanses the building ahead of opening to the public. A smoking ceremony is a First Nations tradition that has existed for over 60 thousand years. It will see the burning of native Australian flora to produce cleansing smoke, which in turn pays respect to Kaurna land and acknowledges ancestors.
After the smoking ceremony, attendees can expect a wonderful range of fun activities for families, face painting, plenty of food, and even a program of captivating author talks.
With an impressive list of new features, here’s what you can expect at Ngutungka Henley:
- An impressive library collection
- A bookable community kitchen
- Exhibition spaces for artists and more
- Meeting rooms
- Toilets including fully accessible facilities
- Printing, copying, scanning and more
Programs and activities at Henley & Grange Community Centre, 196A Military Road will move to Ngutungka Henley, on February 8th, but the centre will remain open as usual until that date.
Angela Evans, Mayor City of Charles Sturt said on social media, “The name Ngutungka is Kaurna meaning ‘place of knowledge’ and is acknowledgement and recognition not only of our First Nations history but also of the role the facility will play in our community’s future”
Evans said “Looking around, you’ll discover the library, featuring a wonderful children’s area, study areas, meeting rooms, kitchen, a Changing Places. Plus, there’s a fantastic courtyard to meet friends and enjoy the sea air.”
“Visitors to Ngutungka Henley can expect the familiar and the innovative. There will be much-loved programs from the Henley library, and the Henley and Grange Community Centre, along with a variety of new activities for everyone to enjoy.”
The beautiful new space pays significant homage to the heritage-listed Henley Town Hall, to which the library serves as an extension. The original charm of the Henley Town Hall, first opened in 1922, will be apparent throughout, with an alluring blend of heritage and contemporary architecture.
Mayor Evans said, “We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has provided feedback over the past few years. Your insights have helped to shape what will become a wonderful community destination for years to come. We can’t wait to open the doors.”
The new Ngutungka Henley will serve as a vibrant hub full of culture, innovation, and education. It’s set to become a space for the Henley community to connect, learn, and thrive.
Ngutungka Henley
What: Henley’s new library and community centre
When: Open February 8th 2025
Where: 378 Seaview Rd, Henley Beach SA 5022
For more information, click here.
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