Council seeks community feedback for library’s future

Ararat Rural City Council is calling on residents to have their say on plans for the future of Ararat Regional Library.

Community consultation for the draft Library Services Strategy 2021-2026 is underway with library members, schools and the wider community encouraged to provide feedback that will help redefine the space.

CEO Dr Tim Harrison says the strategy aims to build on previous achievements and position Ararat Regional Library to play a key role in being a ‘smart city’.

“Libraries play an important role in our community as a place that brings people together and encourages lifelong learning.

“As part of Council’s commitment to innovation, the Library has expanded their digital and online services over the years, but it’s time to update the strategy for future generations.

“The new strategy will guide Council’s delivery of library services into the future, encouraging our community to better connect, learn and innovate.

“We encourage all community members, whether you are a member of the Library service or not, to participate in the survey on the Engage Ararat Platform to enable us to plan, build and maintain a useful and contemporary library service.

“By taking the survey, residents will have the opportunity to provide input on priorities that will influence the Library Strategy for the next 5 years.

“This is a new chapter for the library, we want to hear the community’s thoughts on what they would like from their library service, including services, programs, spaces and facilities.

“The Ararat Library is much more than books. Public libraries are a gateway to learning and it’s important the community has the chance to have their say on how the space should be used in the future,” Dr Harrison concluded.

Community feedback will inform the final Library strategy.  For more information visit https://engage.ararat.vic.gov.au/ararat-library-strategy-consultation or head to Ararat Regional Library to fill out a printed survey.