Gunnedah Shire Council is asking local library lovers to join a statewide call to stop the ongoing reduction in funding from successive NSW State Governments and protect the future of local libraries.
“Local libraries are one of the most utilised and valuable public facilities within any community, playing a very important part in our community life,” Gunnedah Shire Council’s Mayor, Councillor Owen Hasler said.
“The ability of Gunnedah Shire Council to maintain service levels at the Shire’s Library may be at risk due to deteriorating State funding.”
State expenditure on public libraries dropped significantly in 2013 to just 7 percent of total library expenditure, compared to 23 percent in the 1980’s.
“This has and will continue to impact on the ability of local libraries to meet the needs of their communities and has now reached a crisis point.”
Gunnedah Shire Council is seeking the support of all library lovers in the Gunnedah Shire to sign a petition to lobby the Lower House of the State Government for suitable library funding.
“Libraries bring people together, facilitate learning, connect us with information and ideas and provide a wonderful source of recreational pleasure.
“Libraries have evolved to become vibrant hubs that are seen as safe, welcoming spaces that serve a very important community-building role.
“There is no doubt libraries improve the quality of life of everyone who use them and with the support of the Gunnedah community I am confident that we can safeguard the future of local libraries in the state.”
