Four small town libraries are slated for upgrades after Tamworth Regional Council received $170,792 in funding from the NSW Nationals in the state government’s Public Library Infrastructure Grant program.
Libraries in Barraba, Kootingal, Manilla, and Nundle will share in the funding that sees improvements to shelving, seating, and furniture and the introduction of Aboriginal placemaking elements.
Nationals Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said libraries were key community assets in smaller regional centres and this funding would create a more welcoming environment for visitors.
“Libraries mean more to our smaller communities, offering books, magazines, CDs and DVDs, computers, internet access and access to photocopying and printing facilities,” Mr Anderson said.
“They’re a place to go and learn and they’re also a place to meet so its great news that these four libraries will now be fitted out to better meet community needs.”
Nationals Minister for the Arts, Ben Franklin, said public libraries continue to grow and provide access to services that help people at all stages of their lives.
“This funding is part of the additional $60 million over four years the NSW Government is providing to enhance library services and facilities across the state,” Mr Franklin said.
“The NSW Government is committed to working with councils to enhance library services and facilities across the state.
“This funding allocation brings the total of State Government support for NSW libraries in 2021/22 to a record $38.6 million.”
Tamworth Region Mayor Russell Webb said the funding would be used to improve facilities.
“This grant funding is an exciting opportunity for Council to create new facilities and enhance those existing in some of our smaller communities,” said Tamworth Region Mayor, Russell Webb.
“We know that creating welcoming spaces for our residents is important, linking back to Council’s Blueprint 100 vision for the Tamworth region.”
