The Corner at State Library of Queensland reopens in an exciting new location Wednesday 1 April following a $3.6 million transformation designed to help children reach their full potential through creative play and hands-on learning.
The popular children and families space, a national leader in play-based learning since 2006, builds on State Library’s commitment to children’s wellbeing and early development, supporting school readiness and lifelong learning.
The Corner transformation, funded by donors and the Queensland Government, is the largest capital works project since State Library was expanded to its current award-winning design in 2006. Building on this success, the new space has been reimagined by Brisbane firm Architectus Conrad Gargett, creating an inspiring environment that supports creativity, learning and play for Queensland’s youngest visitors.
The new space is larger, livelier and more inviting than ever with songs and stories every day, beautiful spaces to gather and connect, a dedicated art studio, giant building blocks, nooks for books and imaginations, and a garden courtyard to explore.
The Corner is purpose built for learning and play and expanded opening hours mean families can drop in any time between 9:30am and 4pm daily for exploration, connection and play.
The new facility uses the latest thinking on children’s neurological development through the First 5 Forever program, which is delivered in partnership with more than 325 local libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres across the state.
Quotes from Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek:
“The re-opening of The Corner marks an exciting new chapter welcoming our youngest Queenslanders, their parents and carers back into the library to play, learn and thrive.
“I commend the work of the Queensland Library Foundation in leveraging this investment through philanthropic giving to support the delivery of the new The Corner space designed specifically to nurture children’s development and the foundations for creativity, literacy and community connection.
“The Crisafulli Government proudly supports the library to provide inclusive spaces, programs and vibrant learning opportunities for children and their communities in every corner of the state.”
Quotes from State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald AM:
“We are thrilled to welcome children to The Corner’s exciting new home at State Library.
“Thanks to the generosity of our valued donors and the Queensland Government, this dedicated space for children and families has expanded opportunities for play and enriching environments for brain development through play.
“The Corner is one of the most popular spaces at State Library and is part of our enduring commitment to children and families across Queensland.“
The Corner opens on 1 April 2026
Open 9:30 am – 4 pm | Free entry
State Library of Queensland,
Queensland Cultural Centre, South Bank
