Families in the Kangaroo Flat area have a modernised library thanks to a $140,000 partnership between the Brumby Labor Government and City of Greater Bendigo Council.
Minister for Local Government Richard Wynne today officially opened the redeveloped Kangaroo Flat Library.
“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to build stronger communities by providing local families with fantastic facilities such as this library in Kangaroo Flat,” Mr Wynne said.
“We want all Victorians to have access to good quality facilities that meet the needs of growing and diverse communities, just like this library does.”
Member for Bendigo West Bob Cameron said the library was ideally located near the Lansell Plaza Shopping Centre, which made it perfect for busy families to access while doing their shopping, or using other facilities.
“This upgrade has given the library a stronger identity within the area and improved the building’s sustainability and accessibility,” Mr Cameron said.
“Not only does the building appear more modern, its energy efficiency is also what we would expect in the 21st century, with a mix of zoned and sensor lighting.”
The building also has environmentally-friendly window coverings and water-saving devices.
Mr Wynne said Kangaroo Flat Library received an $80,000 grant from the Brumby Labor Government’s 2009 Living Libraries Program, while the City of Greater Bendigo contributed more than $60,000.
“Also today, I am pleased to release the guidelines for this year’s Living Libraries Program, which provides $3 million for the continuation of the successful program,” Mr Wynne said.
“The Brumby Labor Government recognises the important role of public libraries, which provide meeting paces, as well as foster lifelong learning and provide free access to books and other printed and digital information.
“I invite all councils and regional library services to consider applying for a Living Libraries grant of up to $500,000 that can go towards a brand new facility, a refurbished library or a mobile library.”
Living Libraries grants contribute to the renewal of public library infrastructure. So far, a total of 124 projects have been funded through the State Government’s commitment of $31.5 million to the program.
The guidelines for the 2010 Living Libraries Program can be downloaded from the Local Government Victoria website www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au. The deadline for submissions is Friday, 30 July, 2010.