Another rally is planned for today as locals fight for library services.
Hundreds turned out in Geelong West on Saturday, initially planned after the Geelong Regional Library Corporation proposed closing three facilities.
However, following crisis talks, the organisation says the libraries in Barwon Heads, Geelong West and Highton will remain open.
However a budget shortfall from the City of Greater Geelong’s proposed financial document will see all libraries except for central Geelong closing on Saturday afternoons and on Sundays.
The organisation says existing staff vacancies may not be filled, and there will be less services at the Geelong Heritage Centre.
The Corporation will not receive $762,000 to operate the newly opened Boronggook Drysdale Library, while the council says funding to operate the Armstrong Creek Library, as it won’t open before July, 2024.
The City of Greater Geelong says it never support any closure of libraries.
It says it appreciates service providers working with the council to operate as efficiently as possible, so the impact will be minimised on the community.
Residents say they will not accept any closures or cuts to services.
A rally is planned for Highton Village at 10 this morning, with another to be held ahead of Tuesday’s Geelong council meeting.
Picture: Locals at a rally on Saturday [Save Geelong West Library via Facebook]