Don’t forget our books: libraries’ plea as funding falls
Local leaders want public libraries on the state election funding page saying crucial dollars keep falling despite their vital learning role. See how Marion librarians are going viral over their love of books.
SA’s public libraries are underfunded, the Local Government Association (LGA) claims and urges the next state government to commit to a stronger funding model to deliver its essential public services.
The state government has offered public libraries $20.1 million for the coming year under a deal that must be renegotiated by the end of January, down from the $20.7 million it has committed in previous years.
The LGA want more funding and indexation to be worked into the deal, which would add about $3 million over the next two years under the average CPI.
With school going back this week, major parties have rolled out education commitments, but Public Libraries SA President Pepper Mickan said beyond being a place to borrow books, libraries are crucial hubs for all-ages learning.
“They support children learning to read, assist people looking for work, and give hands-on help with everyday tech like setting up new smartphones, understanding online safety, learning how to spot scams, and using social media,” Mickan said.
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“Families can borrow toys, games and learning tools without the pressure of extra costs, while older residents can stay socially connected, learn how to use online banking safely, and keep learning throughout their lives.
“If we truly value education, opportunity and strong communities, we must support our libraries and recognise their enormous value by putting in place appropriate, sustainable funding arrangements that secure their future.”
Currently, local councils invest around $86 million every year into South Australia’s 140-plus public libraries, which accounts for about 84 per cent of total funding, according to the LGA.
LGA President and Mitcham Mayor Heather Holmes-Ross says public libraries are “core cultural institutions” that should be prioritised by the next state government.
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“For our public libraries to be sustainable, they need appropriate funding and it’s important that this is recognised,” she said.
“We’re seeing increased demand for these services, which further stretches the resourcing of library staff and volunteers.”
The LGA says libraries bring about $253 million annually in economic and social benefits, which the organisation has been promoting through a campaign called ‘How Good Are Libraries’.
Meanwhile, librarians at Marion have put South Australian libraries on the world stage through their TikTok and Instagram videos, showcasing their services and jumping on viral trends.
Library staff, led by marketing support officer Jasmine Argent, have amassed 70,500 Instagram followers with 18,500 followers and 551,100 likes on TikTok.
Starring librarian Denise has become a favourite character of the page, which has even caught the attention of Ariana Grande.
Through social media, the team promotes the library’s range of events and programs, heritage research centre, online courses, audiobooks, movie streaming and more services.
Following their social media success and demand to meet Denise, the library even brought in a cardboard cut-out of its main character.
