The fast-growing northern Bellarine Peninsula is about to get a new library and community hub thanks to support from the State Government.
Duty MP Gayle Tierney, on behalf of Member for Bellarine , Lisa Neville has announced City of Greater Geelong will receive $1 million from the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
The funding will help deliver the $9.15 million new Drysdale Library, an innovative and exciting design set to be built at a spectacular site that offers 360-degree views of the region.
At more than 1100 square metres, it will be more than four times as large as the township’s current library and able to hold 8,000 more collection items.
When complete, the new library will include an extensive children’s area, youth space and IT room as well as space for library programs like children’s story time, community meetings and events.
The northern Bellarine Peninsula is a fast-growing area with increasing numbers of young families. The population is expected to increase by more than thirty-two per cent by 2041.
Since 2015 the Victorian Government has invested more than $32.5 million into 95 Living Libraries projects, allowing a total investment of $236.8 million for new libraries, upgrades to existing facilities and library vans.
The 2021 round of the program is the biggest in its history, part of a record $56.9 million commitment to libraries from the 2020-2021 Victorian Budget.
Victoria is home to 276 permanent library branches, 31 mobile library services and 71 other library outlets, with more than 2.1 million library members registered in the state.
For more information on Living Libraries and this year’s successful applications visit www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants/living-libraries-infrastructure-program
Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane
“The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program makes a real difference for communities across the state, delivering high-quality library facilities and ensuring that all Victorians have access to a public library.”
“Investments like this help create local jobs and ongoing employment opportunities. The Victorian Government is investing in communities and local neighbourhoods because we understand the difference projects like these can make.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“I acknowledge Lisa Neville MP for her ongoing support of this exciting local Library project, it’s going to be an incredible asset for the northern Bellarine Peninsula.”
“Despite being one of the smallest libraries in Greater Geelong, Drysdale’s current library is one of the most popular. Through this project even more local people will be able to access all the great services it provides.”
