Elsie Lange
A well-stocked, maintained library is a magical place to be.
At least, you’d think so – except just 7.89 per cent of Hume’s population are active borrowers at libraries across the large municipality.
That’s despite 83 per cent of Hume library collections being younger than five years old, according to Hume’s local government performance report.
Councillor Jarrod Bell spoke to the issue at a council meeting last month, and described it as “close and important” to his heart.
“We know that here in Hume we have an outstanding library service,” Cr Bell said.
“They’re innovators, they’re passionate about the service that they deliver, and they are delivering, what is in my opinion, one of the best library services in Victoria.
“These numbers tell the same story,” he said.
The statewide average of libraries with well-maintained collections under five years old is just 64 per cent, and Cr Bell said it shows Hume is “investing” in the resources their residents need.
Cr Bell said his “call to arms” was for residents to head to their local borrowing spot.
“It’s yours for the taking, join the library, become an active user,” Cr Bell said.
“Take advantage of the films, the books, the online services, and the programs.”
He said by the time the next report comes around, he hopes to see the percentage of active borrowers jump to 20 per cent.
“I challenge every single councillor around this table: next opportunity you’re engaging with members of the community, sign them up to the library,” Cr Bell said.
