State allocates $250k for library services, but council costs still rising

The Wangaratta Library has been allocated $254,283 in annual funding through the latest round of the Victorian government's Public Libraries Funding Program. Rural City of Wangaratta director sustainability and culture, Stephen Swart, said the state's investment is a positive step towards recognising the important services that contemporary public libraries provide. "The Wangaratta Library is a vibrant community hub offering digital access, educational and public programs, community services, and a safe, inclusive space for social connection," he said. "From toddler tales and craft sessions to digital mentoring and author visits, the library supports lifelong learning and wellbeing across all ages. "While this funding is appreciated, council continues to contribute significantly to the library’s operations, ensuring that services remain responsive to community needs. "Council supports sustainable and equitable funding models that reflect the growing role libraries play in fostering a connected society. "We look forward to continuing our partnership with the state government to enhance access and opportunity for our community." The government's Public Libraries Funding Program was established to provide annual funds for councils and other bodies to run libraries. This includes everything from physical and electronic collection of items, information technology facilities, delivery of library and outreach programs, and the raft of other services provided by public libraries across Victoria. Minister for Local Government, Nick Staikos, said the state government is supporting community libraries and the endless access to knowledge, social connection and entertainment they offer all Victorians. “Our libraries offer so much more than books – they foster lifelong learning and contribute to the connections that strengthen and enrich Victorian communities," he said. Minister Staikos said since 2015, the government has invested more than $498.5 million through the Public Libraries Funding Program. However, council's peak body, the Municipal Association of Victoria, says the state needs to contribute more funding, as councils have to shoulder around 80 per cent of the operational daily funding of libraries – from paying staff to opening the doors, purchasing new books and other resources, and providing internet access and computers for community use. "Historically, library funding was shared 50:50 between the state and local government, but funding by successive Victorian governments has failed to keep pace with the growth and expansion of services," an MAV spokesperson said. The Rural City of Wangaratta's budget figures reflect this. Council contributed $665,000 in 2023/24, $671,000 in 2024/25, and is budget to contribute $613,000 in 2025/26 for library services, seeing its cost of the service per population rise from $33.08 in 2023/24 to $35.10 in 2025/26.

State allocates $250k for library services, but council costs still rising

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