Local libraries are set to bear the brunt of Geelong Council’s budget shortfalls, with the Geelong Regional Libraries Corporation told to find over $1 million to help fund the service.In response to the shortfall the GRLC will propose the closure of the Barwon Heads, Geelong West and Highton libraries and the transition of Chilwell Library to an
unstaffed model, effective from the coming financial year.
Meanwhile the Corio and Boronggook Drysdale libraries are set to now close on Sundays, while eight local libraries will be closing earlier on Saturdays.
“The last thing we want to do is close libraries and reduce services to the communities that we serve, or to impact our staff,” GRLC CEO Vanessa Schernickau said.
“But with the COGG draft budget as it stands we have been left with no choice.
“A funding shortfall of this size cannot be found by reducing programs or events, or small modifications to our operating models.
Ms Schernickau assured employees and locals there would be no redundancies for permanent staff, but vacant roles may not be able to funded and filled.
“Libraries are a fundamental part of healthy communities,” she said.
“During these tough economic times with so many local residents feeling the pinch we’re seeing people flock to the library, whether for free WiFi to look for jobs or do homework, or a warm place to be with young children while and attend our free Baby Time or Story Time sessions—more than 29,000 people attended vital early years literacy programs last financial year.
“Libraries are one of the last free, safe, warm, inclusive spaces that exist in modern society.
“Almost a million people walked through the doors of our libraries last financial year, and in the first fortnight alone at the new Boronggook Drysdale Library we welcomed more than 10,000 people.
“People experiencing homelessness regularly find refuge in our libraries, those who are socially isolated can connect with others.
“We provide tech support from job seeking to avoiding cyber scams; deliver books and more to those who can’t leave their house due to illness or disability.”
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