Monday 26 June 2017

The Andrews Labor Government is spending more money than ever before on Victoria’s public libraries.

Harriet Shing today announced library funding of $1.98 million to buy books, update computers and deliver programs for school kids across Gippsland.

West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation, which covers the shires of Bass Coast, Baw Baw and South Gippsland, received a total of $831,575 to continue to deliver the important library services the community needs.

The remaining three councils of Gippsland, which offer single council services, also received an increase in funding compared to last year.

East Gippsland $337,285
Wellington $314,793
Latrobe $495,774

The Victorian Budget 2017/18 provided $42.5 million for the Public Libraries Funding Program — a 2.5% increase from last year.

The funding comes on top of the $4.5 million Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, which provides grants to build, redevelop or refurbish libraries across the state.

The Labor Government is also providing $4.4 million over four years for the Premiers’ Reading Challenge Book Fund, so public libraries can purchase materials to get more kids reading.

Victoria is home to 275 permanent library branches and 30 mobile library services, with more than 2.1 million library members registered in the state.

On average, just under one in five Victorians visit their local library in Victoria.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Natalie Hutchins

“The Andrews Labor Government is giving our councils and public libraries the resources they need to continue delivering these important services for Victorian communities.”

“We understand the importance of libraries to Victorians and that’s why we’re continuing to support them with record funding.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing:

“Our communities in Gippsland rely on our public libraries. That’s why this government is doing more than ever to help continue the many wonderful programs and services they provide.”