Portland Library will undergo a major upgrade thanks to a funding boost from the Andrews Labor Government.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP has announced $300,000 for a significant redevelopment of Portland’s public library through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
This project will create a youth area which will enable better programs for teens, including study support, reading groups and tutorial opportunities. The project will also establish small group and study facilities, and integrate public PC facilities into the library space.
The children’s area will be redesigned and relocated to provide a more appropriate space for programs and activities. This project will also establish space for start-up business incubators and for the display of the local history collection.
Glenelg Shire Council was successfully in securing this grant, due to the Victorians Governments changes last year where rural and regional councils no longer have to match 50/50 library funding.
The Victorian Government also allocated $178,741 to Glenelg Shire Council under the Public Libraries Funding Program for 2016/17, which contributed to the purchase of materials and the provisions of programs such as Rhymetime, Storytime, and book chats.
The $4.5 million Living Libraries Infrastructure Program provides grants to develop, redevelop or refurbish libraries across the state. The funding comes on top of the annual funding for libraries provided to councils as part of the $41.5 million Public Libraries Funding Program.
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.
In 2015-16 an average of 316 people out of every thousand attended a cultural, literacy or skill development program at a Victorian public library – up 4 per cent on the previous year.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“This is a fantastic announcement that will provide for the youth space and upgrades needed for all our community to enjoy the services at the Portland Library.’’
“This much needed funding will ensure the Portland Library remains at the heart of our community, connecting people of all ages and interests to the world through the collection and online resources.”
“Libraries are a key part of every community and that is why we are providing record funding to ensure they are well supported.”
“The Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program is helping fast track the development of Victoria’s libraries to ensure they meet the needs of our regional communities.”
