Minister for Local Government Jeanette Powell today announced $33,000 in Victorian Coalition Government funding from the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program for the refurbishment of the Bright and Myrtleford libraries.
“The Coalition Government is committed to the continual upgrade of Victoria’s world-class public library network to ensure life long learning opportunities for all Victorians,” Mrs Powell said.
“Libraries are essential public infrastructure that bring the community together and connect it to the wider world and the Coalition Government is making a substantial investment in these community hubs.”
Member for Benalla Bill Sykes welcomed the funding for Bright and Myrtleford libraries as another example of the Coalition Government investing in the local community.
“I am pleased the Minister has provided this funding for Bright and Myrtleford libraries, which was a matter I raised in the Parliament on 23 November,” Dr Sykes said.
“This funding will make a big difference in the delivery of library services in the Alpine Shire. Libraries are an important part of our community; they are learning centres and places where people can gather.
“With this funding, the Bright and Myrtleford libraries will now have new carpets, new book chutes and minor building repairs, resulting in an improved appearance of both libraries to make them vibrant, clean and safe places for the community to enjoy.”
Mrs Powell said through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, $17.2 million was being invested over four years to improve Victoria’s public library structure by delivering at least 40 new or upgraded library facilities across the state.
“The purpose of the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program is to improve the infrastructure of Victoria’s public libraries to make them more accessible and to meet the changing needs of communities.”
The first round of funding will result in $3.4 million being invested in the rebuilding or refurbishment of Victoria’s public library network.