By Denise Deason
WYNDHAM City Council’s libraries have received a big boost in funding in the recent state-wide allocation from the Victorian Government.
The council will receive 14.1 per cent more to spend on its libraries, bringing the total allocation for 2007-2008 to $681,598.
Kerri Sidorow, the council’s manager of libraries and community learning, said Wyndham’s rapid population growth had brought a substantial increase in funding this year. “The money will be used to support ongoing library operations and staffing,” she said.
“As well, there’s new initiatives including the development of homework, book club and readers’ advisory programs and the redevelopment of the library website.”
A record $35.12 million for Victoria’s 315 public libraries and mobile services was announced by the Minister for Local Government, Richard Wynne, last week.
The investment represents an increase of $1.93 million over last year.
“Public libraries in high population growth areas received the biggest boost in funding,” Mr Wynne said.
“Melbourne’s western growth corridor is set to reap the rewards.”
Wyndham came second only to Melton Shire Council, which received a 17.9 per cent increase.
The total funding includes $30.12 million in recurrent grants.
A further $3 million has been allocated for the continuation of the Living Libraries program and another $2 million will help libraries to buy books for the Premier’s Reading Challenge Book Fund.
Mr Wynne said this year’s funding made provision for the increasing demand on library services as more people retire from full-time work, reflecting the trend towards an ageing population.
Almost 50 per cent of Victoria’s population are members of their local free public library.
The libraries received 32 million visits last financial year.
