narrm ngarrgu Library and Family Services by Six Degrees Architects

In the heart of Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market precinct, a $15.7 million state-of-the-art facility has taken root, making a resounding statement about the city’s commitment to community and culture.

Constructed as part of the $500 million Munro Development and unveiled in November 2023, the three-level, 3,000-square-metre narrm ngarrgu Library and Family Services by Six Degrees Architects is much more than a library. It’s a dynamic space that seamlessly weaves together the essence of Melbourne’s laneways, bustling market life and a profound respect for Indigenous culture.

“As a new addition to this family of civic rooms, the library’s reading and event space will bring life and activity to the much-loved Queen Victoria Market precinct.”

Working alongside the City of Melbourne’s city architect, Professor Rob Adams, Six Degrees Architects ensured “that the project connected to the CBD and mirrored the southern end of the city, with the NGV’s Great Hall, The Edge at Federation Square and the [La Trobe] Reading Room at the State Library,” says Peter Malatt, Six Degrees project director. “As a new addition to this family of civic rooms, the library’s reading and event space will bring life and activity to the much-loved Queen Victoria Market precinct.”

The name narrm ngarrgu, which translates to ‘Melbourne knowledge’ in Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language, encapsulates the library’s steadfast mission. It’s a celebration of traditional owners, an acknowledgment that echoes through the integration of Aboriginal culture and heritage within the building. Indigenous artist Maree Clarke’s creations adorn the library, with light box installations, carpets and outdoor art reflecting the beauty of Country, the seven seasons and the five Kulin nations. The resulting space not only serves its functional purpose but also tells a story of unity, learning and respect for all ages and cultures.

“narrm ngarrgu is a remarkable new facility that will make it easier than ever for Melburnians to access essential family and health services, books and information.”

“narrm ngarrgu is a remarkable new facility that will make it easier than ever for Melburnians to access essential family and health services, books and information,” says Lord Mayor Sally Capp, underlining the multifaceted significance of this cultural hub.

The new facility is not just a place to read; it’s a community-centric gathering point. The building houses 3D printers, laser cutters and audio studios for podcasting, emphasising inclusivity, creativity and a focus on people. The light-filled reading and event room overlooks the market, providing a space for civic gatherings, talks and quiet study, bridging the gap between function and aesthetic appeal.

Its harmonious design – blending modern architecture with cultural significance – sets a precedent for how spaces can be both functional and deeply enriching.

The library introduces Melbourne’s first dedicated children’s library, and a 960-square-metre rooftop terrace with native plantings, play areas and interactive artworks. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the Makerspace brings another layer of creative innovation to the proceedings. narrm ngarrgu is a formidable gateway to knowledge, with a collection of more than 30,000 new print books and an extensive digital repository available in multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for Melbourne’s diverse community. The inclusion of maternal and child health support services, parenting services, family support and counselling reinforce its position as a central community hub.

narrm ngarrgu Library and Family Services has quickly made its mark as a cultural landmark that speaks to the city’s identity. Its harmonious design – blending modern architecture with cultural significance – sets a precedent for how spaces can be both functional and deeply enriching. As the City of Melbourne’s first library to open in nearly a decade, it symbolises the city’s dedication to fostering community connections, knowledge dissemination and cultural appreciation.

Architecture by Six Degrees Architects. Build by Buildcorp. Landscape by Bush Projects. Development by PDG and City of Melbourne. Artworks by Maree Clarke, Lucy Foster, Ellen Sayers and Hilary Jackman. Art curation by Megan Evans. Stained glass by Adadaz Leadlights.