Record funding for public libraries continues

The NSW Treasurer the Hon Matt Kean MP and the Minister for the Arts the Hon Ben Franklin MLC have announced that the record funding for NSW public libraries is set to continue.

Minister Franklin shared this announcement in a video message presented at the NSW Public Libraries Association Conference in Albury on 10 November and it was very warmly received by those present.

The long-term cooperative relationship between the State Government and local councils is the foundation of the public library network in NSW, and this funding commitment ensures that the partnership will become even stronger. 

364 libraries across the state will benefit from more than $165 million in government funding over the next four years. This funding will help to support free access to books and information, no matter who you are or where you live. 

The annual funding package includes $30 million to councils to improve collections and services, a $6 million capital grants program, $2 million in Internet connectivity support and a range of targeted programs such as the Outback Letterbox Library, which is operated by Broken Hill City Library.

State Librarian John Vallance welcomed the news: "This announcement provides certainty for councils and enables them to plan ahead and to keep improving their collections, library buildings and spaces." 

"The State Library works closely with all NSW local councils and their libraries, and we know this funding is critical to supporting free access to books and information for every citizen of NSW."

Public library funding is administered by the State Library on behalf of the NSW Government.