Just one week out from the library’s official opening, the news was announced by Premier Kristina Keneally.

Junee Library architects Workshop 1 Dunn + Hillam Architects, along with architects for the Matiland Regional Art Gallery, were presented with the prize on Friday night.

Premier Keneally said the site, while modest in scale and budget, had a unique architectural expression.

“Each makes an important contribution to the public life in their regional communities and each demonstrates that simple, inexpensive interventions can invigorate the public life of NSW regional centres,” she said.

“Together, they show how architects can work with local communities to deliver quality projects for modest sums, and incorporate sensible environmental design.”

Workshop 1 Dunn + Hillam’s Ashley Dunn said the award was a great surprise but most welcomed in its recognition of regional areas.

“The main goal was to create a community centre or hub ... It was bigger than the building itself,” he said.

“Through it (the building) now is the education and showcasing of very old technology to complement the environment around it.

“It’s important for people to know good buildings only happen with good clients. It was really the vision of council ... without it backing it up, it would not have happened.

“It sets a good example for bigger areas to follow.”

Council general manager Greg Campbell said council was thrilled with the news.

“Council is delighted for recognition of our foresight and judgement for the right architect of quality,” he said.

The library will be official opened on Thursday, July 1 at 11am by NSW Arts Minister Virgina Judge.