The Cootamundra War Memorial Library welcomed members of the Library Council of NSW and State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon for a visit that highlighted the vital role public libraries play in regional communities and the value of ongoing partnerships that support local library services.
The visiting delegation included Library Council members Hon Bob Debus AM, Jennifer Barrett, Bob Cameron AO, Hon Rowan Darke, Kay Delahunt, Grace Karskens, Vivian Pham and Victoria Weekes. They were joined by Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC), staff and Councillors Ros Wight, and Ethan Ryan.
During their visit, guests toured the library and viewed recent renovations and improvements that have enhanced the facility for local residents. Members of the Library Council were impressed by the library building and the upgrades undertaken to create a modern, welcoming community space.
The visit provided an opportunity for informal discussions about the future of the library and potential funding opportunities through the State Library of NSW. Areas identified for future development included new shelving, improvements to outdoor spaces and the possibility of a new kitchen in the Stephen Ward Rooms.
Importantly, the visit reinforced the strong partnership between local libraries, the Library Council of NSW and the State Library of NSW. Rather than acting as regulators, the Library Council and State Library work alongside councils and library services to support the delivery of quality library facilities and programs across the state.
The Library Council advises the NSW Minister for the Arts on the needs of public libraries and regularly visits libraries throughout NSW to gain first-hand insight into local priorities, challenges and opportunities. These visits provide an important opportunity for councils and library staff to share future plans and discuss the support needed to continue delivering valuable services to their communities.
Library representatives welcomed the chance to showcase the impact of previous grant-funded projects and to discuss how future investment could further strengthen services for residents.
“Regional libraries are far more than places to borrow books. They are community hubs that provide access to information, technology, lifelong learning opportunities and social connection,” Deputy Mayor Ros Wight said.
“We were delighted to welcome the Library Council of NSW and State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon and to share our vision for the future. Their visit was a valuable opportunity to discuss how we can continue working together to meet the needs of our community.”
The visit highlighted the important contribution libraries make to the social, educational and cultural life of regional NSW and the ongoing benefits of strong partnerships between local councils and the State Library sector.
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Cootamundra War Memorial Library hosted representatives from the Library Council of NSW and State Library. They were joined by CGRC Councillors Deputy Mayor Ros Wight and Ethan Ryan, and CGRC staff for a light luncheon after the inspection of the Libraries facilities.
