After an extensive internal renovation, the Corryong Elyne Mitchell Library was officially re-opened at a community event on Saturday.

Towong Shire Council mayor, Cr Peter Tolsher, was joined by Colin Morrison (representing the Victorian Department of Government Services) and Honor Auchinleck, the daughter of Elyne Mitchell.

Council was successful in securing $320,000 through the Victorian government’s 2024-25 Living Libraries Infrastructure Program to fund this major upgrade.

“Applications for the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program are extremely competitive and Towong Shire was one of only a handful to receive support under this Program in 2024-25,” Cr Tolsher said.

“Council warmly thanks the Victorian Department of Government Services for the funding provided through program to facilitate the renovation.

“This new library is more than a renovated building, it’s a true community asset that will better reflect the aspirations of residents for a more functional and engaging public space.

“It offers improved spaces for reading, learning, participating in programs and coming together as a community. By investing in our library, we have invested in the future of our community, in education, connection and opportunity.”

The Corryong library proudly carries the name of Elyne Mitchell OAM, the beloved local author known for the Silver Brumby series of books and her deep connection to the Upper Murray.

Mrs Mitchell lived at Towong Hill, drawing inspiration from the surrounding mountains for much of her writing.

In honour of her legacy, the library holds a complete selection of her works, celebrating the important contribution she made to Australian literature and to the Upper Murray community.

“Council was delighted to have Mr Morrison and Mrs Auchinleck on hand to re-open the library,” Cr Tolsher said.

“Council would also like to acknowledge Thomas Eames from Eames Architects for leading the community consultation for the library renovation and designing a space that truly reflects what our community wanted. Q1 Constructions are responsible for the high-quality workmanship and finishes evident throughout the renovated library and council also thanks them for the superb end product that has been delivered.

“We would also like to acknowledge Uncle Phil Murray for supplying the Aboriginal artefacts featured in the library and for conducting the smoking ceremony at the reopening that added a deeper cultural meaning to the opening ceremony.”

Benefits of the library upgrade include:

• A new reading room and quiet study spaces.
• An early years area with flexible, child-friendly furniture.
• A small private meeting room for telehealth and confidential use.
• Improved acoustic treatment, layout and lighting.
• Integration with existing rear meeting space to support training and events.
• Upgraded technology, including RFID self-service and return equipment.
• Furniture and fittings to support collaboration, learning, and inclusion.

This article appeared in Corryong Courier, 26 March 2026.