Glenelg Shire Council will be able to buy new books, deliver reading programs and improve local library spaces, thanks to funds from the Andrews Labor Government.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP today announced Glenelg Shire Council will receive $178,741 in funding, as part of the Labor Government’s record $41.5 million Public Libraries Funding Program.
Ms. Tierney said the funding would ensure that local libraries were able to continue their important work in the community.
Grants from the 2016-17 Public Libraries Funding Program have now been allocated, with funding amounts determined based on population size and demand.
This year’s funding comes on top of the Labor Government’s recent $22 million boost to the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and Premier’s Reading Challenge Book Fund.
Living Libraries provides grants to councils and regional library services for capital works – leveraging investment to build new facilities or upgrading established ones.
The Premiers’ Reading Challenge Book Fund provides funds for public libraries to purchase new books and other materials to boost participation in the annual Premiers’ Reading Challenge.
Victoria is home to 272 permanent library branches and 29 mobile library services. There were more than 46 million items loaned from Victorian libraries in 2014-15, with more than seven million Wi-Fi and PC bookings.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Natalie Hutchins
“Victoria’s libraries are one of the most valuable community resources we have. With record funding from the Andrews Labor Government, libraries will continue to be able provide a great service to local communities.”
“We’re upgrading and improving libraries right across the state to keep up with the community’s growing demand for library services.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP
“I know how much local residents love our library services, so this is fantastic news for our community.”