Established in 1878, the building has been kitted out with the latest technology, including laptops and charging station donated by the school’s P&C, and an interactive touch screen device.

There is also a wonderful selection of new books, and flexible furniture that can be moved and altered to suit learning needs.

Greta Public School relieving principal Sarah-Jane Hazell said the students have embraced the new technology and layout with open arms.

“Some people have said libraries are things of the past, but ours is a bridge to the future,” she said.

“The kids have named it ‘the heart of the school’.

“In addition to having a wonderful time learning with our library teacher, students are lining up to spend their own time in the flexible learning space each day.”

Ms Hazell paid tribute to the school’s previous principal Graeme Oke for his vision for the space, and teacher-librarian Nichole Orr for her enthusiasm in taking on the project this year.

Ms Orr said the library has become the most popular place in the school.

“There’s always something exciting happening in the library,” she said.

The official opening of the new-look library was held on Monday in conjunction with the beginning of the Australian Children’s Council Book Week celebrations.

Greta Public School families, members of the local community and Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent were among the guests who visited the school for morning tea and a tour of the library (led by library monitors from Year 5).

The day also included a writing and illustration workshop with Katrina McKelvey and Kirrili Lonergan, the author and illustrator of the children’s book Dandelions.

Greta Public School’s Book Week celebrations will also include a book fair, a performance by Maitland Library and a parade where all are invited to dress as their favourite book character.