Your local public library needs you

  • Have your say on the future of public libraries in Western Australia
  • Draft strategy available for public comment until April 8, 2022
  • Focus on strengthening communities, digital inclusion and the value we place on public libraries
  • Community members are urged to have their say on the future of public libraries in Western Australia.

    A draft strategy is currently available for public comment at slwa.wa.gov.au until April 8, 2022.

    The strategy has been developed as a joint project between State and Local Governments and centres on three themes:

    • Strengthening Communities – What is needed to enable you to have a greater say in the services that public libraries deliver?
    • Digital Inclusion – What is needed to make public libraries the first place you think of for access to technology and online resources like electronic books, audiobooks and streaming films? How can public libraries help you to access Government services online?
    • How we value our public libraries – How can Government and communities accurately assess the impact public library services have on us all?

    There are 232 local public libraries throughout WA. Last year there were more than 7 million in-person visits and 3 million online visits to libraries. Western Australians borrowed more than 16 million books, electronic books, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs and other items to keep themselves educated, informed and entertained.

    As stated by Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman:

    “Libraries are one of the few places where someone can stay all day and can both learn and be entertained for free. They are truly egalitarian cultural treasures.

    “For many communities, the local public library is the hub. Public libraries foster connections – between members of communities and between individuals and the information they need to live their lives.

    “I encourage all library users to take the time to read the strategy and provide feedback. This is about your public library, so please have your say.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.