Community vision for expansion as Mapleton Library Community Centre marks 40 years

Following a devastating fire in 1992 the community rallied together. 

The Mapleton community is celebrating a remarkable milestone as the Mapleton Library Community Centre marks 40 years of service, while also looking ahead to an exciting new chapter.

Originally established in 1985 as an extension of the Nambour Shire Library, the Mapleton service quickly became a valued local asset. Following a devastating fire in 1992 that destroyed the building and its entire collection, the community rallied together. Through determination and generosity, residents rebuilt and reopened the facility as an independent library in 1993.

Over the past four decades, the Mapleton Library Community Centre has evolved into a cornerstone of village life—supporting students, families and lifelong learners, and providing access to essential services and programmes.

Today, increased usage and demand for study spaces, digital resources, community programmes and Justice of the Peace services have placed pressure on the Centre’s current facilities.

‘We’ve reached an important turning point,’ Dr Nita C Lester, President said. ‘Our community has grown, and so too has the need for accessible learning spaces and services. We now have an opportunity to expand and ensure the Centre continues to meet these needs well into the future.’

To support this vision, plans have been developed for a new extension that will enhance literacy, education and community engagement opportunities for residents across the region.

Afternoon tea and presentation

Community members, stakeholders and potential supporters are warmly invited to attend an afternoon tea and presentation to learn more about the proposed expansion. Attendees will have the opportunity to view architectural drawings, explore the benefits of the project, and discuss potential funding pathways.

The Community Afternoon Tea and Expansion Presentation will held at 2:00pm, Sunday 29 March at the Mapleton Library Community Centre, 10 Obi Obi Road, Mapleton. Everyone is welcome. If you plan to attend, please reply by Friday  27 March on mapletonlibrary@gmail.com  for catering purposes.

The Mapleton Library Community Centre extends its sincere thanks to the community for its ongoing support and invites everyone to be part of shaping a larger, more accessible future.

Residents rebuilt and reopened the facility as an independent library in 1993. 

The Library Community Centre has evolved into a cornerstone of village life.