Benalla Rural City Council is set to receive $161,012 to invest in its local library.

This funding is part of a $48.1 million Victorian Government initiative to support local councils in improving public libraries and their community programs.

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said the funding formed part of the regular support the Rose City counted on each year.

“We’re pleased to receive this funding from the state government,” Cr Hearn said.

“It helps us keep our library running and continue offering services that many in our community rely on.

“It’s important funding, and we’re grateful it continues.

“Our library is more than books. It’s a place where people come to learn, connect and feel safe.”

“We’ll keep working hard to make sure our library stays strong and continues to meet the needs of Benalla Rural City.

“This funding helps us do that.”

Strathbogie Shire will receive $141,985 to invest in its libraries in Violet Town, Euroa, Avenal and Nagambie, as well as its mobile library, which visits smaller towns in the LGA.

Local Government Minister Nick Staikos recently announced the investment through the latest round of the Public Libraries Funding Program to promote education and innovation among young Victorians.

“We are supporting our terrific community libraries and the endless access to knowledge, social connection and entertainment they offer all Victorians,” Mr Staikos said.

“Our libraries offer so much more than books — they foster lifelong learning and contribute to the connections that strengthen and enrich Victorian communities.”

The program was established to provide annual funds for councils, regional library corporations, Connected Libraries Ltd, My Community Library Ltd, Your Library Ltd and Vision Australia.

It aims to support a range of essential community activities and services delivered every day across 293 branches statewide.

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.

Libraries are no longer places just for borrowing books. They are places where the community can access e-resources, wi-fi, computers, meeting rooms, art spaces, and diverse child, youth and adult programs.

Public libraries are vibrant community hubs that offer a safe space for social interaction, digital connection, lifelong learning and rich, cultural experiences.

Since 2015, the government has invested more than $498.5 million through the Public Libraries Funding Program.

For more information, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/funding-programs/public-library-funding

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