Library services in Rylstone are to receive a significant boost after Bathurst MP Paul Toole and Minister for the Arts Don Harwin announced funding as part of the Public Library Infrastructure Grant program.
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As a result Mid-Western Regional Council will receive a State Government grant of $72,400 to renovate and refurbish the existing council office in Louee Street and transform the premises to include space for a library.
Bathurst MP Paul Toole said the aim of establishing a library branch in the renovated building was to encourage members of the public to use the premises by providing the local community with a “one stop shop” of council and library services.
Mr Toole said the library would play an important role in the community, providing much more than simply a place to borrow books.
“Libraries are at the heart of our community and are transforming rapidly to meet the challenges of the digital age,” he said.
“Not only are they places to borrow books, but they are also places to read newspapers and magazines, access the internet, to study for school, or to meet up with friends.”
Mr Toole said he is thrilled that the NSW Government will be continuing its strong support for libraries.
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the NSW Government had spent $28.8 million on libraries in the current financial year.
“Public libraries continue to grow and provide access to services that help people at all stages of their lives,” Mr Harwin said.
Mr Harwin said the NSW Government is committed to working with councils to enhance library services and facilities across the State.
“It is essential that rural residents have equitable access to services and I am particularly delighted to see grant funding that will assist 30 rural councils in meeting the specific needs of their library users,” he said.