Community
30 August, 2024
Library service in demand
MORE than 63,000 visitors have been recorded across the 10 libraries in Moyne and Corangamite shires over the last 12 months.
The Corangamite Moyne Library Service has reported usage figures for the 2023/24 year, and the numbers show the community value of the shared library service.
Moyne mayor Cr Ian Smith said statistics showed the community viewed libraries as a destination, demonstrating many uses beyond the expected books and reading.
“In particular there has been a large increase in attendance at library programs, up 41 per cent compared to the previous year,” Cr Smith said.
“Events for children such as our story times are very popular as these sessions bring fun to early literacy and learning while giving carers and children a chance to connect and meet friends, old and new.
“Our libraries offer book clubs, chess clubs, Lego clubs and more, with the home energy and water efficiency kits being a hit this year.”
Cr Smith said libraries don’t simply provide access to books and other loan items - staff also support users to navigate the digital landscape.
“We’re also seeing wi-fi and PC usage remain strong, with our community utilising these services to connect with an increasingly online world,” Cr Smith said.
Other key statistics across the shared service included over 7,500 attendees at 800 programs and events; over 4,200 attendees at early childhood programs and over 76,000 loans from branch collections.
There were also more than 27,000 digital loans and over 7,200 library wi-fi and PC sessions.
“Our libraries remain as free public spaces, warm and comfortable environments to read the papers, connect with friends, attend an event, or bring children for a play,” Cr Smith said.
