Proposed Changes to Library Services

Tablelands Regional Council is proposing changes to their libraries following a detailed library service review.

‘The needs of our community are constantly changing and we need to evolve and adapt the way we provide services,’ said Mayor Rod Marti.

‘Our library service review informed improvements and provided direction for the delivery of a quality, contemporary, cost-effective and equitable library service.

‘Our libraries have seen a significant decrease in attendance over the past nine years while access to digital resources has increased, and the bottom line is, we can’t continue to provide seven libraries in our region.

‘We’re proposing to start outreach services to Herberton, Millaa Millaa and Yungaburra where we’ll provide services, workshops and one-on-one support.

‘We’ll work to increase digital skills so, among other benefits, the community can access digital library services.

‘We’re also trialling changes to the operating hours of the Atherton, Malanda and Ravenshoe libraries to allow increased access on weekends and after 5pm.

‘The biggest change we’re proposing is the closure of Millaa Millaa and Yungaburra libraries, and Herberton Library and Customer Service Centre.

‘The staff at these libraries will be reassigned within our library services.

‘These fairly significant changes are some of the first steps to ensuring we position ourselves to meet the evolving needs of our community and continue laying the foundations for a sustainable future for our local government area.

‘We met with our library staff today to commence consultation on the proposed changes, and will continue to gather feedback throughout the coming weeks before a final decision is made,’ said Mayor Marti.