The new generation Bendigo Library is proving a hit with patronage up almost 26 percent on 2012 levels.
Figures released show the redeveloped library boasted 54,722 visits during its first month of operations.
The original library had 43,454 visitors for the same period in 2012.
There has also been a 7.5 percent increase in the number of items borrowed and a 233 percent increase in the number of new members being signed up compared to the same period in 2012.
Mayor Councillor Barry Lyons said that the new generation Bendigo Library is already proving its worth to the community.
“Prior to the opening, the original building was a highly utilised public facility, catering for approximately 500,000 visitors a year.
“Maintaining the community’s acceptance of the facility and having the ability to offer new and varied community programs and services was seen to be crucial to the success of this project.
“Based on these early utilisation figures, I think it’s fair to say that the new generation Bendigo Library is proving a hit with users and is now very well placed to cater for our community’s diverse needs.
“With the inclusion of performance, activity and meeting spaces, state-of-the-art technology, a new home for the Bendigo Volunteer Resource Centre and integrated gallery spaces, the redevelopment further strengthens central Bendigo as a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming place to visit.”
