Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, has welcomed the State Government announcement of significant funding for public libraries in the Nanango Electorate.
Mrs Frecklington said the South Burnett Regional Council will receive nearly $160,000, the Somerset more than $104,000 and Toowoomba more than $720,000 over the next three years to support library services in the region.
“Libraries are the cornerstones of lifelong learning and this money will ensure our local libraries continue to provide a quality and up-to-date service for our community,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“In fact, the State Government will delivery $68.4million to 319 public libraries across Queensland to help them retain their lead as innovative, social and virtual learning spaces,” she said.
Deb said that even though the State Government inherited a huge debt, they have continued to prioritise what is important to the community through programs such as the Public Library Allocations program.
“The funding will help to develop high-quality library collections electronically, as well as in print, across many genres. Libraries can apply to spend up to 50% of the grant in any year on a priority project such as redesigning library spaces or to foster the library’s role as a technology centre for all,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“Supporting our public libraries is part of the State Government’s drive to provide arts for all Queenslanders.”
The public library grants are calculated based on populations, with a number of weightings applied for population age, growth rate and location.
