Works underway on Lake Macquarie Council's $5.8 million Sugar Valley Library Museum at Cameron Park

The $5.8 million Sugar Valley Library Museum will feature a museum, library and conference room and is expected to be complete by the end of this year. Once complete, Edgeworth Library services will relocate to the new building.

"There are few libraries like this in the world and our community will benefit from this innovative space where people can come to learn, create and connect," Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser said.

"The museum will be a drawcard for tourists, with an array of historic artefacts on display and the latest technology adding a whole new level of engagement."

West Wallsend District Heritage Group Secretary Leah Buchanan said she was excited to see history come to life.

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"A virtual experience will immerse visitors in Killingworth Colliery's history, with a tour of a mine destroyed by a huge explosion in 1910," Ms Buchanan said.

"Through virtual reality goggles, visitors will travel along the old mine tunnels and find historic tools and objects."

Council's arts, culture and tourism manager Jacqui Hemsley said she expected the new building to increase visitation in the area by up to 35 per cent.

"This building enhances our library system and allows us to host touring art exhibitions. It also has a capacity to store up to 7000 heritage items," Ms Hemsley said.

A virtual reality program will feature at the museum, funded by the NSW government.

Construction company Lloyd Group will undertake the works.

"We're truly honoured to deliver the construction of such a distinctive project. The team is looking forward to seeing the new facility bring together both local residents and the wider community," general manager Matthew Licuria said.

The project is funded entirely by council via development contributions.

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