$5.53 million for Victoria's 'living libraries'
The Victorian Government has approved $5.53 million in funding for 22 library projects across the state under the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program 2011-12.
"These 22 projects will deliver local communities with improved facilities that will meet the changing needs of library users in the 21st century,” State Minister for Local Government Jeanette Powell said.
"Three councils each received the maximum $750,000 funding for a new library for Braybrook, a refurbished library for Bairnsdale and a relocated library for Dandenong.
"Other councils received varying amounts of funding for projects ranging from new libraries, to new carpet, to purchasing a new mobile library prime mover.
"The grant applications are assessed by an independent committee with representatives from the Department of Planning and Community Development, Municipal Association of Victoria and the State Library of Victoria, who evaluate the projects against the guidelines which has set criteria for assessment including lasting social and economic benefits, improved library services and improved community access.