Woy Woy Library has received more than $188,000 under the Public Library Infrastructure Grants 2016/17 program, to create an exhibition space within the library which will showcase a unique collection of original Spike Milligan family memorabilia.

The proposed museum-quality Spike Milligan Exhibition Space (SMES) is set to attract visitors from around the globe, due to the culturally significant collection of photographs, recordings, video, realia and diaries.

Group Leader Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the exhibition space is an opportunity to honour the legacy of the world-famous comedian who took Woy Woy to the world stage. The incredible lives of parents Flo and Leo and brother Desmond will be explored, shedding light on the development of the wonderful Milligan world view. We are very grateful to the late Desmond Milligan and his son Michael for their donation of such a stunning collection.

“As one of the worlds most revered and influential comedians, Terence “Spike” Milligan of Goon Show fame was a regular visitor to the Woy Woy Peninsula,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Spike had deep personal connections to the district — he wrote books, radio shows and poetry here. He also took a very keen interest in the history and environment of the local area, supporting local causes and immersing himself in the natural beauty of the Central Coast.

“Feedback from library visitors over many years has indicated an enduring interest in the Milligan legacy; however limited exhibition space has made it difficult for our unique memorabilia collection to be properly accessible to the public.

“The new exhibition space will offer a visually engaging, informative and interactive experience and act as a drawcard for fans from across the globe. Coupled with flexible floor space for conducting various programs and events, the space is set to become an invaluable asset within our local community.”

To allow for the exhibition to be properly housed and displayed, substantial upgrades will be undertaken at the library including:

• Installation of mobile shelving to house the general collection;
• Implementation of new floor planning;
• Preparation of Milligan Collection resources;
• Installation of museum showcases;
• Installation of AV equipment and furniture for exhibition and lounge area; and
• Revitalisation of the existing Spike Milligan room.

The SMES is scheduled to open in 2018, which also marks the centenary of Spike’s birth and provides the ideal opportunity to celebrate the existence of this significant collection.