The government has announced the delivery of better libraries and library programs for Victorians with library upgrades, supporting education programs and the delivery of mobile library vans across the state.
Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos visited Knox Library on 1 February to officially open the living libraries infrastructure program grants round, with successful libraries able to share in more than $4 million.
“Libraries are spaces for everyone in the community – and we’re stepping up to support better libraries with more services for Victorians,” he said.
“I look forward to councils and libraries applying for these grants so we can work with them to deliver more of the spaces and services that communities rely on.”
Public libraries provide free services for communities across Victoria, including internet access and education programs – which is why the government has invested almost $50 million into 139 library infrastructure projects over the last nine years.
Member for Bayswater Jackson Taylor said local libraries are about more than just books, they are places where people come together to connect, learn and grow.
“I’m stoked we continue to provide record funding to support these ripper institutions across Victoria,’ he said.
This funding can be used to support library upgrades and services like mobile library vans – reaching readers that would not otherwise have access to library services.
Last year’s funding round supported Thomastown Library with $178,000 to build workstations with attached cribs for parents who work or study.
It also provided $200,000 to revitalise the Mount Waverley and Wheelers Hill libraries, and $187,000 for Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation to purchase and fit out an outreach van.
Grant applications are now open until March 14 2025.
For more information on the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and application process, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants.
