The sterling work of public libraries in the City of Whittlesea in 2020 has been recognised with a record level of funding from the Victorian Government.

Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane and Lily D’Ambrosio MP, State member for Mill Park today announced libraries in the City of Whittlesea will receive $1,367,501 in funding to buy new books and collection items, run online services and deliver outreach programs.

The funding for the City of Whittlesea comes as part of a record $56.9 million for Victorian libraries through the 2020 State Budget.

Libraries in the City of Whittlesea and across Victoria have provided tremendous support to their communities throughout the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

From virtual story times for kids and check-in phone calls for all members, to book delivery and partnerships with Meals on Wheels, Victorian libraries have made a real impact in peoples’ lives at a challenging time and the City of Whittlesea is no exception.

The Victorian Government also funds the expansion, redevelopment and modernisation of libraries through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, which received an additional $11.1 million over two years in the 2020 Budget.

Victoria is home to 276 permanent library branches, 31 mobile library services and 71 other library outlets, with more than 2.1 million library members registered in the state.

Quotes attributable to Member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio

“The pandemic really brought home the value City of Whittlesea libraries bring to our community. It’s great to see the State Government give them the support they deserve.”

“Libraries strengthen and enrich our Mill Park community. They’re places all of us can benefit from and they have a life-long impact.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government, Shaun Leane

 “This funding ensures libraries have the resources they need to keep up the amazing work they’ve been doing. Libraries really do change lives and they are about so much more than books.”

“It’s been fantastic to see so many Victorians, particularly children and older people, connected through virtual library services during the pandemic, whether that’s a virtual story time, a check-in phone call or books delivered with Meals on Wheels.”