Big plus for our libraries

Altona Meadows Library

The community will soon be able to access hundreds of Council services at Hobsons Bay libraries.

The exciting expansion, known as Council+, means that customer service staff at libraries will be able to assist visitors with queries ranging from rates and parking to waste and planning.

Mayor of Hobsons Bay Cr Peter Hemphill said the initiative was an important expansion of council services and does not change the excellent offerings of the five libraries.

“Council’s services are keeping pace with community expectations,” he said. “This exciting change is part of our commitment to providing value for money for ratepayers.

“Our library team will continue to provide their skill and expertise and are looking forward to supporting the community on general Council services, such as rates and infrastructure requests.”

Council delivers more than 100 services to our community each month. The addition of library service centres will mean many residents and businesses will be able to access and benefit from these services in person, and closer to home.

“Once launched, you can go into any Council+ service centre to borrow a book, use video conferencing, pay your rates, upsize your bin, apply for a parking permit, check a planning application and so much more,” Cr Hemphill said.

Hobsons Bay has five libraries, and members have access to more than 130,000 books, films, magazines and audiobooks. Visitors can use library wifi, print, copy and scanning services, monitor their household energy use, and have items delivered to their homes.

Williamstown, Altona North, and Altona Meadows will be the first libraries to become Council+ service centres, with more sites added by the end of the year.

Council+ will also mean more community meeting spaces, more ways to connect with Council and easier access to specialised services and subject experts.

The community are invited to celebrate at events on Thursday 26 May at Williamstown Library and Friday 27 May at Altona North Community Library and Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre.

The events will feature performers, free workshops, live music, children’s activities, exhibitions, giveaways, delicious food, and hot drinks.

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