- Published:
- Wednesday 17 July 2024
The Allan Labor Government will deliver library upgrades across the state – to help our libraries improve their services and support their communities.
Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne today announced the latest Living Libraries Infrastructure Program (LLIP) recipients at Middle Park Library, which will soon be redesigned and revitalised as one of 19 projects to receive a share in $2.2 million in funding.
This builds on the more than $48.2 million invested by the Labor Government in Victoria’s 283 public libraries this year – to ensure they can continue delivering their vital services to the community.
The Middle Park Library Activation Project will receive $200,000 from the Labor Government and a further $200,000 from the City of Port Phillip.
The library space will be redesigned in collaboration with the community, with a focus on ensuring it meets the needs of young people during the day. The redesign will also create more opportunities for events including primary school visits, book club meetings, author talks, after-school spaces and a toy library.
The latest round of funding also includes $156,000 for Melton City Council and $187,000 for Goulburn Valley Libraries for new mobile library vans, and more than $70,000 for technology improvements at Alpine Shire Libraries.
The Labor Government is also supporting Greater Shepparton City Council with $42,000, Hepburn Shire Council with $185,000 and Strathbogie Shire Council with $48,000 to provide greater access to library resources.
Over the last nine years, the Labor Government has invested more than $49.3 million dollars into 139 library infrastructure projects.
For more information on the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and this year’s successful applications, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
“Whether it’s through improved technology, after-hours access or outreach services, we are supporting our libraries to meet the needs of communities across Victoria.”
“We love our public libraries, and through our Living Libraries Infrastructure Program we are building high-quality facilities so that more Victorians can access library services.”
Quote attributable to Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor
“The revitalised Middle Park Library will provide more locals with access to library services, and by designing the new facility with the community we will ensure young readers have the space they need to grow and learn.”
Quote attributable to Public Libraries Victoria President Vanessa Schernickau
“This essential funding benefits all local communities through resourcing their valued public libraries that contribute to a prosperous and healthy Victoria.”