Library Service Review Outcome

Councillors voted to keep all Tablelands Regional Council’s libraries at yesterday’s Ordinary Council Meeting.

‘We conduct service reviews to ensure we are making best use of our resources and providing value-for-money services that align with community need,’ said Mayor Rod Marti.

‘Continuous improvement is essential for ensuring processes, services and outcomes remain effective, efficient and responsive to changing needs.

‘We recognise the importance of providing a sustainable library service for all ratepayers, focused not only on the books but on the vital programs and services libraries provide to the community.

‘We asked staff to undertake this extensive review, including considering the closure of some libraries.

‘We have heard the views of the community and the feedback from staff, and have made the decision to:

• retain all seven existing libraries
• consider transitioning Yungaburra Library to a community volunteer-supported facility
• empower staff to review opening hours, including a trial of extended weeknight and Saturday opening hours at busier libraries.

‘The goals of the service review were to ensure the delivery of sustainable library services, improve operational efficiency and align services with the needs of our whole community, while minimising negative impacts for existing users.

‘I appreciate the large body of work the staff has undertaken, and the community for their contributions to the process.

‘The review has confirmed our library services are highly valued and effective.

‘The decisions made today support the role of libraries as dynamic hubs for community learning, connection and engagement,’ Mayor Marti said.