We need your help to protect public library funding.

May 4, 2023

We need your help to protect public library funding!

Public Libraries are sending an S.O.S to the Victorian Government. With only a few weeks to go before the State Budget is released, Public Libraries Victoria has received no indication that the growing needs of our sector and communities will be addressed.

Public Libraries Victoria has no commitment to protect or build funding for library programming or infrastructure. Without an urgent increase to fundings, library services and programs are at risk in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis; it’s time to send a clear message to the Victorian Government about what’s at stake. Communities need free public library services now more than ever. With many public libraries struggling with cuts to collection budgets, programs and staffing, we’re asking the community to join our call to #ProtectPublicLibraries.

We’re asking the Victorian Government to support free, safe and welcoming spaces for communities weathering a cost-of-living crisis by protecting, and increasing investment in the Public Library Funding Program.

How you can help –

We encourage you to email your concerns about library funding directly to Premier Daniel Andrews, Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne, and Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Equality Harriet Shing.

daniel.andrews@parliament.vic.gov.au

melissa.horne@minstaff.vic.gov.au

harriet.shing@parliament.vic.gov.au

Share what you love about libraries and what’s at risk without adequate investment.

Here are a few prompts to get you started.

With only a few weeks to go before the State Budget is released, the Victorian government has given no commitment to protect or build funding for our public libraries.

Many public libraries are already struggling with cuts to collection budgets, programs and staffing.

Now is not the time to cut free services to the Victorian public.

I rely on my library for…

I call on the Victorian Government to support free, safe and welcoming spaces for communities weathering a cost-of-living crisis by protecting, and increasing investment in, our precious public libraries.

Share on socials –

Follow Public Libraries Victoria on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter and share their posts using the hashtag #ProtectPublicLibraries. Share your own stories to help advocate, protect and increase State Government funding for public libraries.