The State Government is supporting public libraries to expand and adapt their services for local communities, providing connection and learning opportunities during the pandemic.
Local libraries in Casey will receive a funding boost to expand library collections, online services, and programs under the $47.4 million Public Libraries Funding Program, with $2,806,017 going to Casey Cardinia Library Corporation.
The Public Libraries Funding Program provides annual funding for councils, regional library corporations and Vision Australia to support a range of activities and library services across 277 branches.
This funding contributes to the purchase of physical and electronic collection items, information technology, library and outreach programs, and other services provided by Victorian public libraries.
“Our libraries and their amazing staff have provided such a critical service and continue to be that community welcoming connection point, helping people feel less lonely and isolated during the pandemic, doing outreach and phone calls,” said Bass MP Jordan Crugnale.
“It is important that they receive the support and resources to continue this great work.
“This funding will be a huge boost to our much-loved public libraries, enabling them to provide even more service, programs and digital resources to support and connect our community.”
Beth Luppino, acting chief executive officer at Casey Cardinia Libraries, said the funding was “much needed” during these difficult times.
“Casey Cardinia Libraries are proud to have demonstrated throughout the pandemic that libraries change lives,” she said.
“Even when our doors are closed we are still serving the community with free services such as click and collect (books and printing), home delivery and hosting online events.
“Casey Cardinia Libraries’ ability to find alternate ways to deliver services and support to the community has been valued by our library users, and is also clearly valued at a State Government level.
“The increased funding will result in direct benefits for our community in terms of lifelong learning opportunities, social connection, digital literacy and learning.”
