Library set for bigger volume

HAMPTON Park Library is set for an $800,000 extension after reaching full capacity.
Despite only opening in January 2004, nearly 10,000 readers have joined the library.
Casey Council will now make an application to the Department of Victorian Communities Living Libraries Program for a 280 square metre extension to the library.
A council report recommended the library be extended to increase available public space for collections and library services, including Internet and youth activities, at an estimated cost of $800,000.
At the council meeting a fortnight ago, councillor Wayne Smith said it was no surprise that the benefits of the Hampton Park Library and its high usage were being recognised.
He said it might come as some surprise to members of the library, council and community that there was once an era where people were saying that Hampton Park didn’t need a library.
Cr Smith said now the focal point was no longer whether Hampton Park needed a library but how to extend the space since so many people had joined.
He hoped the government approved the application.
Grants of up to $500,000 are available through the 2007 Living Libraries Program on a dollar for dollar basis.