A new mobile library van has rolled into Golden Plains Shire on Thursday 11 July 2024, thanks to the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program (LLIP).
Community members in Meredith celebrated the $150,000 project, which will continue to bring easily accessible library services to people in more remote areas of the shire including Cape Clear, Dereel, Enfield, Grenville, Haddon, Linton, Meredith, Rokewood and Smythesdale.
The Victorian Government contributed $111,000 into the new vehicle, with Golden Plains Shire Council contributing $37,000 and Geelong Regional Library Corporation a further $1,400.
The van will be more sustainable and economical to run than the mobile library truck it replaces, enabling more efficient service delivery. Its modern fit-out includes shelving, data cabling, heating, hardwood floors, and a hydraulic lift for accessibility.
Over the past 9 years, LLIP has invested over $49.3 million into 139 library infrastructure projects worth a combined total of $348.8 million. The program supports councils and regional library corporations across Victoria to upgrade facilities and spaces in response to the growing and changing needs of their local communities.
With Victorians borrowing more than 31 million items from local libraries each year, libraries remain Victoria’s most popular community facility. They provide widespread access to print and digital resources and IT equipment and offer free or low-cost programs and events for people of all ages as well as training and development opportunities. Libraries are safe and supported community spaces that play a key role in building and supporting literacy.
Visit the Geelong Regional Libraries website for more information about this project.
